Confusion Hits NUP Over Flag Bearer for Kawempe North By-Election.

Alex Luswa (L) late Mohammed Ssegirinya middle, Twahira Akadinda widow to the late. Courtesy image.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) is facing confusion and internal strife as it struggles to choose a flag bearer for the upcoming by-election in Kawempe North Constituency. Several prominent figures have shown interest in the position, complicating the party’s decision-making process. Among the contenders are Alex Luswa, who was the personal assistant to the late Mohammed Ssegirinya, and Nalukoola, a lawyer based in Kampala. Luswa’s candidacy has been particularly significant, as the family of the late Ssegirinya has publicly backed him as the preferred candidate. This has put the party leadership in a dilemma.

The NUP leadership is concerned about the political ramifications of choosing a candidate who may go against the wishes of Ssegirinya’s family. With the late legislator’s family strongly supporting Luswa, the party fears that choosing someone else could alienate the family and negatively affect the party’s chances in the election. The pressure is mounting as the party grapples with balancing family loyalty with the broader political strategy required to retain the Kawempe North seat.

The death of Ssegirinya has sparked widespread speculation, with many attributing his passing to government actions, although there is no conclusive evidence to support such claims. Ssegirinya had been arrested for allegedly sponsoring violence in Masaka and was denied medical treatment during his imprisonment. Despite these accusations, the government announced a state burial for Ssegirinya, which fueled further controversy.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, sources close to the NUP indicate that there is a faction within the party, including the former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga though he was chased but still has influence in party with other stake holders, who are allegedly pushing for the widow of the late legislator, Twahira Akadinda, to be the party’s candidate. The push is reportedly motivated by a desire to garner sympathy votes, with some party members and unidentified figures in government allegedly backing her candidacy. However, sources suggest that Akadinda herself had not initially shown interest in running, and her candidacy was more of a political maneuver than a personal choice.

This internal conflict has left NUP leaders in a quandary. With multiple factions vying for influence, the party is scrambling to make a decision that will ensure they maintain control over the Kawempe North seat while navigating the sensitive issue of family loyalty and the broader political dynamics at play. The final decision on the party’s flag bearer is still pending, and it remains to be seen how this internal power struggle will impact the outcome of the by-election.

Invest or Donate towards HICGI New Agency Global Media Establishment – Watch video here