NRM's Muyanja Ssenyonga, Iddi Lubyayi defect to NUP
The recruitment event, held at the NUP headquarters in Kavule, drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has welcomed a wave of new members, including notable figures from various political parties, particularly the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The recruitment event, held at the NUP headquarters in Kavule, drew hundreds of enthusiastic supporters.
Among the new recruits were former Members of Parliament Muyanja Ssenyonga of Mukono and Iddi Lubyayi of Bukomansimbi, both previously affiliated with the NRM.
Their decision to join NUP signifies a significant shift in Uganda’s political landscape as more leaders realign themselves with the opposition.
The event was attended by top NUP leaders, including party president Robert Kyagulanyi, Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, Secretary-General Lewis Rubongoya, and several Members of Parliament.
NUP’s national mobilizer, Nyanzi Ssentamu, officially welcomed the new members, who also included former NRM affiliates such as Sarah Nakawunde.
In his address, Kyagulanyi Ssentamu issued a stern warning to the new members, stressing the importance of adhering to the party’s principles.
He cautioned against prioritizing personal ambitions over the party's collective goals, especially for those seeking political positions. Kyagulanyi noted that members who have put selfish interests ahead of NUP’s mission have ultimately faced disappointment.
He urged the new recruits to fully embrace NUP’s core values, which focus on identifying societal problems, devising solutions, and taking decisive action.
"Our strength lies in our unity and commitment to the cause," Kyagulanyi emphasized, urging new members to work collaboratively towards the party's objectives.
The new members expressed their resolve to contribute meaningfully to NUP’s mission, citing disillusionment with the ruling NRM party as a driving force behind their decision to switch allegiance.
They pledged to dedicate their efforts to the change they believe Uganda needs.
Timothy Batuwa, a Member of Parliament for Jinja West and a member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), also attended the event.
Batuwa highlighted the importance of unity among opposition forces, calling on everyone present to strengthen their resolve under NUP’s leadership.
The influx of new recruits, including prominent former NRM members, marks a pivotal moment for NUP as it continues to position itself as a leading force in Uganda’s opposition landscape.
