JINJA, Uganda — The National Unity Platform (NUP) has significantly broadened its parliamentary representation in Uganda’s Busoga sub-region, winning eight seats in the 2026 general election, a dramatic improvement from the single seat it held in the previous parliamentary term.
Until now, the only NUP legislator from Busoga was Manjeri Kyebakutika, the incumbent Jinja City Woman Member of Parliament. Her continued presence in the legislature had been a rare foothold for the opposition party in a region traditionally dominated by other political formations.
Newly elected NUP MPs in Busoga
The newly elected NUP-sponsored Members of Parliament (MPs) from the sub-region are:
- Timothy Batuwa (Jinja South West) — who previously served under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) before retaining his seat on an NUP ticket;
- Paul Mwiru (Jinja South East);
- Hussein Muyonjo (popularly known as Swengere, Jinja North);
- Sarah Lwansasula (Jinja City Woman MP);
- John Odwori (Kagoma North);
- Jamal Mukuve (Bukooli North);
- Nasser Mudiobole (Iganga Municipality);
- Andrew Kaluya (Kigulu South).
This expansion marks a significant political shift in Busoga, long considered a stronghold of other parties, particularly the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and historically more established opposition groups like the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
Significance of the gains
Political analysts say NUP’s gains reflect growing support for the party’s message in urban and peri-urban constituencies within the sub-region, particularly among younger voters and in areas where economic concerns, including unemployment and the cost of living, have been prominent campaign issues.
The party’s success in Busoga mirrors broader trends seen in other parts of the country, where NUP has capitalised on dissatisfaction with the status quo and a desire for new parliamentary representation.
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NUP officials hailed the outcome as evidence of the party’s rising national appeal and political maturity. They say the results demonstrate a widening base of support beyond traditional strongholds and underscore Parliament’s evolving political balance.
Opposition leaders have also framed the gains as a message to the ruling party about the electorate’s desire for accountability, stronger representation, and more responsive governance.
Meanwhile, analysts note that the expansion of NUP’s presence in Busoga could influence regional development priorities and parliamentary debate on issues affecting constituents, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job creation.
