Some NUP MPs Didn’t Turn Up For Their Executive Meeting

Several lawmakers affiliated with the National Unity Platform (NUP) party from the Greater Masaka sub-region opted to abstain from the scheduled caucus gathering held yesterday at the party’s headquarters in Makerere-Kavule, Kampala.

Presided over by Party President Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, the meeting was also graced by the presence of the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi. Although there are 57 NUP representatives in parliament, our cameras only spotted 30 arriving for the assembly.

Notably absent were Nyendo Mukungwe MP Mathias Mpuuga, Butambala MP Muwanga Kivumbi, and Busiro East MP Medard Lubaga Ssegona. Sources indicate that the meeting was convened to address internal party matters. Attendees were instructed to hand over their mobile devices upon arrival.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) emerged as a prominent political force in Uganda relatively recently, but its roots trace back to earlier movements and individuals within the country’s political landscape. The party was officially founded on July 22, 2019, by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known by his stage name Bobi Wine, a renowned Ugandan musician and activist.

Bobi Wine’s entry into politics marked a significant shift in Uganda’s political dynamics, particularly among the youth population, who resonated with his message of change and social justice. Prior to the formation of NUP, Bobi Wine had been serving as an independent Member of Parliament representing Kyadondo East constituency since 2017.

The formation of NUP represented a consolidation of various opposition forces in Uganda, aiming to challenge the decades-long rule of President Yoweri Museveni and his National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. NUP positioned itself as a grassroots movement, advocating for democracy, human rights, and economic empowerment for all Ugandans, particularly the marginalized and disenfranchised.

Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, including arrests, harassment, and intimidation of its members and supporters, NUP steadily gained momentum and popularity across the country, especially among young people disillusioned with the status quo.

In the run-up to the 2021 general elections in Uganda, NUP emerged as a key contender, with Bobi Wine as its presidential candidate. The campaign was marked by widespread enthusiasm and support, particularly among urban and rural youth, who saw Bobi Wine as a symbol of hope and change.

However, the electoral process was marred by allegations of irregularities, voter intimidation, and violence, leading to a controversial victory for incumbent President Museveni. Despite widespread criticism and condemnation from international observers and human rights organizations, Museveni was declared the winner, extending his three-decade-long rule.

Following the elections, NUP continued its advocacy efforts both within and outside the political arena, pushing for electoral reforms, accountability, and respect for human rights in Uganda. Despite facing ongoing challenges and crackdowns from the government, NUP remains a vocal and resilient force in Ugandan politics, committed to its vision of a more democratic and inclusive society.