NUP Opens Eastern Uganda Stronghold, Courts Kadaga

National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has declared his party’s readiness to welcome First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga into their ranks, following her recent expressions of disillusionment with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Addressing a jubilant crowd in Iganga during the official opening of a new NUP regional office, Kyagulanyi extended an olive branch to the veteran politician, signalling a potential significant shift in the Ugandan political landscape.

The opening of the state-of-the-art NUP office in Iganga, located in the heart of eastern Uganda, marks a strategic move by the opposition party to solidify its presence in a region traditionally considered an NRM stronghold.

The event, held on [Insert Date], drew a large and enthusiastic crowd, including several NUP Members of Parliament, district chairpersons, deputy party presidents, and numerous supporters from across the eastern region.

The atmosphere was electric, a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation hanging in the air. Supporters chanted party slogans and waved NUP flags, their energy infectious and indicative of the growing support base for the party in the region.

The newly constructed building, a symbol of NUP’s growing influence, stands as a testament to the party's commitment to expanding its reach and establishing a strong foundation for future political campaigns.

In his address, Kyagulanyi directly appealed to Kadaga, urging her to join NUP and work alongside them to build a better Uganda. He acknowledged Kadaga's long and distinguished career in Ugandan politics, but emphasised that her recent public criticisms of the NRM leadership suggested a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo.

Kyagulanyi subtly alluded to Kadaga’s perceived marginalisation within the NRM, highlighting NUP's inclusive approach and willingness to embrace experienced leaders who share their vision for the country.

“We are ready to welcome Kadaga with open arms,” Kyagulanyi stated. “We believe her vast experience and political acumen would be invaluable assets to our party, and we are confident that together we can achieve our shared goals of a more just and equitable Uganda.”

He emphasised the need for unity among opposition forces to effectively challenge the ruling party and bring about positive change in the country.

The NUP president’s invitation to Kadaga wasn’t just a rhetorical gesture. It’s a strategic move to exploit any growing fractures within the NRM, potentially attracting key figures and undermining the ruling party’s dominance, particularly in traditionally loyal regions.

The overtures to Kadaga represent a calculated attempt to expand NUP’s appeal and broaden its political base.

The Iganga office opening served as a powerful demonstration of NUP’s growing strength in the eastern region. Several senior party officials echoed Kyagulanyi’s sentiments, emphasising the party's commitment to serving the people of eastern Uganda and addressing their concerns.

John Baptist Nambeshe, NUP’s Eastern Region Vice President, expressed his gratitude to the party leadership for investing in the region, noting that the new office symbolises NUP’s commitment to the people of eastern Uganda and will serve as a hub for political organising and community engagement. He pledged to continue mobilising support for the party in the region.

David Lewis Rubongoya, the party’s Secretary General, highlighted the importance of maintaining the party’s integrity and ensuring accountability within its structures.

He urged party leaders at all levels to uphold the high ethical standards that NUP stands for.

Joel Ssenyonyi, NUP’s spokesperson and head of the opposition in parliament, highlighted the party’s accomplishments over the past five years, emphasising its commitment to good governance and the advancement of the country's interests. He urged the electorate to continue supporting NUP to achieve its goals of transforming Uganda.

Following the official opening, Kyagulanyi embarked on a walkabout, interacting with enthusiastic supporters amidst a heavy police presence.

The sheer number of supporters proved overwhelming, leading to a brief moment of tension as the police attempted to manage the crowd, firing tear gas to disperse the throngs of people.

However, the incident did little to dampen the overall celebratory mood of the event.

The opening of the Iganga office represents a significant milestone for NUP, signifying its ambition to challenge the NRM's dominance not just in urban centers but also in rural areas across the country.

The event showcased NUP’s growing influence and its strategic intent to attract prominent figures from other political parties, potentially shifting the balance of power in Ugandan politics.

The invitation extended to Rebecca Kadaga underlines this ambition and leaves observers waiting with bated breath to see if this high-profile recruitment will materialize. The opening in Iganga is a clear signal that the fight for Uganda’s political future is far from over.