Luyombya Steps Down from Nakawa Mayoral Race in Internal NUP Deal for Nubian Li

Kampala | Godfrey Luyombya has officially announced his withdrawal from the Nakawa Division Urban Council mayoral race, citing the need for party cohesion and unity.

However, multiple sources close to the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) indicate the decision followed intense internal negotiations to pave the way for singer-turned-political activist Nubian Li — a close confidant of party president Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine.

In a public statement released today, Luyombya expressed gratitude for his four years of service as Speaker and Councillor of Nakawa Division, outlining a record of service delivery that included construction of spring wells, boreholes, bursary schemes, and infrastructure development. He emphasized that his decision to withdraw was made “in the interest of harmony and cohesion” following engagements with senior party leaders.

“Upon all the procedural discussions, I found it prudent to withdraw from the race in the interest of harmony and cohesion,” Luyombya stated, adding that although it was a heavy decision, it was necessary to demonstrate leadership by putting service above position.

While Luyombya’s statement did not name any successor or mention an endorsed candidate, insiders within NUP told our reporters that the party leadership had reached an informal consensus to rally support behind Nubian Li — real name Buken Ali — in a broader strategy to front loyal and nationally recognizable figures in key urban races.

“Nubian Li has remained one of Bobi Wine’s most trusted allies, and there’s a growing push within the party to position him for bigger political leadership. Luyombya was persuaded to make way for the greater good of the party,” said one NUP insider who requested anonymity to speak freely.

The development underscores growing internal maneuvering within NUP as it prepares for the 2026 general elections.

Sources say party leadership is working to avoid contested primaries in key divisions by encouraging negotiated withdrawals in favour of unity candidates.

Nubian Li, who previously served jail time with Bobi Wine following the Arua campaign chaos in 2018 and has since transitioned from stage performance to political activism, is expected to formally declare his candidacy for Nakawa Mayor in the coming weeks.

Luyombya, however, reaffirmed his allegiance to NUP and his commitment to the party’s broader goals: “Conclusively, I remain a committed member of the National Unity Platform Political party. So help me God.”

The move has sparked debate among party supporters, with some praising Luyombya’s sacrifice for unity, while others worry about the sidelining of local grassroots leaders in favour of national personalities.

If confirmed, Nubian Li’s candidacy would make the Nakawa race one of the most closely watched contests in Kampala’s political landscape