NUP’s Bid to Reclaim Kawempe Takes New Twist: Bobi Wine’s Brother Accuses Rival of Being NRM Agent

Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, a founding member of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and former head of mobilisation during the party’s formative years, has voiced serious concerns about what he perceives as a deliberate effort by elements within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to infiltrate and destabilize NUP from the inside.

He believes the ultimate goal is to take control of the Kawempe South parliamentary seat ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Nyanzi, who is also the elder brother of NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), is among several aspirants who have picked up nomination forms to contest for the Kawempe South seat, which is currently held by Hon. Hajji Bashir Kazibwe.

Nyanzi’s return to the political front lines comes at a time of growing internal competition within the opposition party as it prepares for a crucial electoral season.

Among those vying for the party’s endorsement is Dr. Roy Ssemboga, another prominent opposition figure who was actively involved in the early days of NUP.

However, Ssemboga reportedly distanced himself from the party around the 2021 general elections. Despite never officially announcing his departure from NUP, he became openly critical of its leadership during that period.

His critiques raised questions about his loyalty to the party, especially at a time when opposition unity was considered vital.

In recent months, Dr. Ssemboga has made a political comeback, signaling his intention to represent NUP in the Kawempe South race by picking up nomination forms.

His re-entry into the party and bid for the flagbearer position has sparked debate among NUP supporters, some of whom remain skeptical of his renewed allegiance.

Nyanzi, in his remarks, implied that some individuals rejoining NUP might be doing so with hidden agendas influenced by external forces—particularly the NRM.

He warned that such actors could sow discord within the party, ultimately weakening its cohesion and electoral prospects.

As the 2026 elections approach, the Kawempe South contest is shaping up to be not just a local political battle, but a litmus test for NUP’s internal strength and its ability to ward off infiltration.

The party now faces the challenge of managing internal democracy while remaining vigilant against possible manipulation from rival political camps