Big Names Out, New Voices In: NUP Unveils Full List Of 2026 Flagbearers

By Our Reporter

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has unveiled its line-up of parliamentary flagbearers for the 2026 general elections, dropping several high-profile legislators in a surprise reshuffle that has sparked both praise and criticism within the party.

Among the biggest casualties are Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala and Busiro East legislator Medard Lubega Sseggona, who have been replaced by new entrants following what party officials described as a “rigorous vetting exercise” aimed at boosting grassroots appeal.

Bagala, a former journalist and one of NUP’s most visible female MPs, lost the party’s ticket to Prossy Mukisa. Analysts suggest her cautious stance during the party’s internal wrangles — particularly her refusal to back a censure motion against former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga, whom she described as a long-time friend — weakened her position within the party hierarchy.

In Busiro East, veteran lawyer and opposition figure Medard Sseggona has been replaced by musician Walukaga Mathias. The reshuffle also saw Rubaga South MP Aloysius Mukasa dropped in favor of Nassolo Eugenia.

The decisions have split opinion within NUP. Supporters of the shake-up argue that the party needs new energy and voices to expand its base ahead of 2026.

However, critics warn that dropping experienced legislators could weaken the party’s effectiveness in Parliament. Sseggona, in particular, has been a consistent voice in Uganda’s opposition politics and a strong debater on legal and constitutional issues.

The announcement was part of NUP’s wider unveiling of flagbearers for constituencies across Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Masaka, Luweero, Mityana, Kayunga, Kiboga, Rakai, and other districts in central Uganda.

Notable names retained on the list include Joel Ssenyonyi (Nakawa West), Francis Zaake (Mityana Municipality), Shamim Malende (Kampala Woman MP), Betty Nambooze (Mukono Municipality), Mathias Walukagga (Busiro East), and Ssemujju Ibrahim Nganda (Kira Municipality).

The party also fronted strong women leaders such as Shakira Namiiro Zinga (Kalungu Woman MP), Brenda Nabukenya (Luweero Woman MP), Nanyondo Veronica Namaganda (Bukomansimbi Woman MP), and Namutaawe Joan (Masaka Woman MP).

The unveiling comes just a day after NUP launched its national manifesto in Jinja under the theme “A New Uganda Now.” With the flagbearers now confirmed, the party says it is ready to focus on mobilization and campaigning as it positions itself for the high-stakes 2026 elections.