The National Unity Platform (NUP) has unveiled a provisional list of parliamentary flagbearers ahead of the 2026 general elections, signaling major changes in several constituencies and reshaping the party’s political landscape. The list features both retained incumbents and new faces, but also notably excludes some prominent MPs, including Medard Ssegona, Joyce Bagala, and Allan Ssewanyana.
In Kampala, Woman MP Shamim Malende has retained the party ticket after a fiercely contested vetting process that saw her edge out KCCA Speaker Zahara Luyirika. In an unexpected twist, Luyirika has been redeployed to Makindye West, a constituency currently represented by Allan Ssewanyana, who did not make it to the new list of flagbearers.
Another significant change comes in Kawempe South, where Fred ‘Chairman’ Nyanzi, elder brother to NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, has secured the party’s endorsement. Nyanzi defeated Roy Ssemboga to earn the ticket, stepping into a constituency previously represented by Bashir Kazibwe.
In Masaka City, former Woman MP Juliet Nakabuye has been replaced by Joan Namutaawe, while Gyavira Ssebina Lubowa has been chosen to represent Nyendo Mukungwe, taking over from former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga. Patrick Kuteesa will carry the Kimanya Kabonera flag, setting the stage for a fierce contest against former party president Abed Bwanika.
Meanwhile, Veronica Nanyondo has retained the Bukomansimbi Woman MP ticket despite earlier tensions with the party during the censure debate against Mpuuga.
In Wakiso, the party has tapped former NBS Amasengejje news anchor Zambali Bulasio Mukasa to contest for Nansana Municipality, while NUP lawyer George Musisi has been lined up to challenge Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) stalwart Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda in Kira Municipality.
The list also reflects NUP’s focus on consolidating its strongholds in the central region, with Shakira Namiiro Zinga (Kalungu Woman MP), Grace Nalubega (Rakai Woman MP), and Hope Ferister Nannyazi (Mubende Woman MP) confirmed as flagbearers.
NUP emphasized that the list remains provisional, as vetting and appeals are ongoing in several constituencies. Adjustments are expected before final nominations are submitted to the Electoral Commission. The exclusion of seasoned legislators such as Ssegona, Bagala, and Ssewanyana has already sparked political debate, hinting at an intense electoral season ahead of 2026.