Muwanga Kivumbi Promises to Flip Buganda as NUP Appoints New Leaders Ahead of 2026 General Elections

KAMPALA – The political landscape in Uganda is gearing up for a seismic shift as the National Unity Platform (NUP) unveils significant leadership changes in preparation for the 2026 general elections. In an unexpected move, Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi has been appointed as the Deputy President for Buganda, taking over from Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, who was ousted due to corruption allegations.

The announcement, made during a press briefing on January 16, 2025, by NUP Secretary-General David Lewis Rubongoya, has ignited a wave of optimism and curiosity across the political spectrum. "The National Executive Committee (NEC) has approved these appointments in an acting capacity until the Delegates’ Conference in June this year," Rubongoya stated, emphasizing the party's commitment to restructuring its leadership.

Kivumbi, known for his passionate advocacy and deep-rooted connections with the people of Buganda, wasted no time in outlining his vision for revitalizing the party's support in the region. "Where you, Mr. President, will not be or are unable to reach in Buganda, I will be there," he proclaimed, drawing on a sense of historical urgency to inspire his supporters. “Every generation has its historical vision. It either fulfils or betrays it,” he remarked, framing his leadership as a pivotal moment for the party and the region.

This strategic repositioning comes at a time when Buganda has become a critical battleground in Ugandan politics, with the ruling party relentlessly attempting to assert its dominance. Analysts view Kivumbi’s appointment as a calculated effort to counter this trend and address the internal challenges that have plagued NUP in recent times.

The reshuffle also sees a series of significant appointments intended to reinvigorate NUP's national presence. Among the notable new leaders are Jacklyn Jolly Tukamushaba as Deputy President for Western Uganda, succeeding the late Maama Jolly Mugisha, Benjamin Katana, taking on the role of Vice Chairperson of the National Consultative Forum; Bwambale Geoffrey, who will serve as Deputy Secretary for Youth in the Western Region; and Harriet Ageno, appointed as Secretary for Policy. These changes are designed to strengthen the party's mission and values across various regions of Uganda.

Rubongoya did not hesitate to voice his concerns about the Electoral Commission, accusing it of gerrymandering in an attempt to undermine fair representation. “This is yet another attempt to stifle democracy and undermine fair representation,” he declared, calling on NUP supporters to remain vigilant against such tactics.

In a show of solidarity, NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, famously known as Bobi Wine, took to Twitter to applaud the appointed leaders, stressing the importance of unity and perseverance in their efforts. “Today, the NEC of NUP took yet another significant step,” he tweeted, underlining the gravity of the moment for the party and its constituents.

As NUP solidifies its strategy for the upcoming elections, Kivumbi's mission to "flip Buganda" is set to be a central theme in their campaign. With the June Delegates’ Conference on the horizon, where these appointments will be formally ratified or scrutinized, the political stakes have never been higher.

As excitement and tension build within NUP, all eyes will be on how the new leadership navigates the complex political terrain of Uganda, particularly in Buganda, a region that remains crucial in the battle for power. The reshuffled leadership reflects a determined effort to reclaim the narrative and challenge the political status quo as the clock ticks down to the next electoral showdown.