Big Blow to NUP Supporters as Official Defects, Declares Support for Museveni and Muhoozi

National Unity Platform (NUP) suffered a major setback after a top official from Karamoja region renounced the party and declared allegiance to President Yoweri Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

Ogwang Calvin, who served as NUP’s Abim District Coordinator and Karamoja Regional Spokesperson, publicly defected during a Youth Empowerment Baraza held at Boma Grounds in Moroto.

The event was attended by Hon. Esther Anyakun, who confirmed the defection in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Ogwang handed over his NUP membership card, party stamp, official files, and 1,000 unused membership cards to the Moroto Resident District Commissioner (RDC), signaling a complete departure from NUP activities.

His move was met with cheers from government supporters who hailed it as a victory for the ruling party.

“Appreciate the President Mzee Kaguta Museveni, CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and security forces for stabilizing Karamoja,” Hon. Anyakun stated, adding that the region's youth would celebrate the development that evening.

Ogwang’s defection is seen as a blow to NUP’s efforts to gain ground in northeastern Uganda.

Karamoja has historically been a challenging region for opposition parties due to security concerns and strong NRM influence.

The move underscores growing tensions and shifting political dynamics ahead of the 2026 general elections, with Muhoozi’s potential political ambitions continuing to reshape Uganda’s political landscape.

NUP has not yet issued an official response to Ogwang’s exit