KAMPALA, Uganda — The National Unity Platform (NUP) has released a tentative list of its parliamentary flagbearers for the 2026 general elections, revealing several notable constituency shifts, a mix of incumbent retention, and the introduction of new faces to carry the party banner. The list signals the party’s readiness for a robust electoral contest across Uganda.
In Kampala, Woman MP Shamim Malende successfully secured the NUP ticket, overcoming stiff competition from KCCA Speaker Zahara Luyirika. In a strategic move, however, Luyirika has been shifted to Makindye West, a constituency previously represented by the party’s Allan Ssewanyana.
Fred ‘Chairman’ Nyanzi, the former NUP national mobilizer and elder brother of party leader Robert Kyagulanyi, will carry the flag in Kawempe South, having defeated Roy Ssemboga to succeed journalist-turned-politician Bashir Kazibwe.
The party also saw major internal shifts in Masaka City, where Juliet Nakabuye lost the Woman MP slot to Joan Namutaawe. Gyavira Ssebina Lubowa has been selected for Nyendo Mukungwe, stepping into the role previously held by former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga.
Further reflecting the complex internal politics, Patrick Kuteesa has been handed the Kimanya Kabonera ticket, positioning him for a direct contest against former party president Abed Bwanika.
Despite past clashes with the party over the attempt to censure Mpuuga, Veronica Nanyondo has retained the Bukomansimbi Woman MP ticket.
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The provisional list also confirmed several candidates in the central region: former NBS Amasengejje anchor Zambali Bulasio Mukasa will contest Nansana Municipality, while party lawyer George Musisi faces the significant task of challenging FDC’s Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda in Kira Municipality.
Key candidates retained or confirmed in NUP strongholds include Shakira Namiiro Zinga (Kalungu Woman MP), Grace Nalubega (Rakai Woman MP), and Hope Ferister Nannyazi (Mubende Woman MP).
NUP classified the released list as provisional, noting that the vetting process remains ongoing in select areas and final adjustments may be made prior to official nominations.
NUP parliamentary candidates 2026 list
Here is the list of successful National Unity Platform candidates for Member of Parliament for Buganda.
