NUP Five-Year Milestone: Striving Against Political and Financial Obstacles
On July 22, Uganda’s largest opposition political party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), marked five years since its official launch in 2020. Initially unveiled in Kamwokya, the party now operates from its new headquarters in Makerere Kavule. The milestone was celebrated by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who reflected on the party’s growth and the hurdles it has faced. Despite limited resources, the imprisonment and deaths of members, and ongoing political repression, NUP continues to stand firm in its mission to end dictatorship in Uganda.
“Our five years have been marked by sacrifice and struggle,” Kyagulanyi said in a statement shared via X (formerly Twitter). “Yet, we have managed to establish the biggest opposition party headquarters at Makerere Kavule, fully operational regional offices, and a clear plan to continue pushing for liberation.” He acknowledged the ongoing abductions, torture, enforced disappearances, and killings of NUP members but emphasized the party’s resolve. “We remain determined to build an institution that outlives us and survives the greed for power,” he added.
While NUP has not achieved all its initial goals, Kyagulanyi expressed confidence that the party is now in a stronger position than ever before. “We may not be where we intended to be, but we are in a better place than we started. Our eyes are fixed on the ultimate mission: ending dictatorship and building a free, just, and inclusive Uganda. No matter the cost, we press forward, believing that with God on our side, no mountain is too high.”
Leadership and Growth within NUP
The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, who also serves as the MP for Nakawa West, echoed Kyagulanyi’s sentiments. He described NUP’s five-year journey as one of transformation, resilience, and leadership development. “The past five years have been rough and tumble, but we have also made great strides,” said Ssenyonyi. “Some thought we wouldn’t last a year, others dismissed us completely from the start. But by God’s grace, we’re still here, building a movement that reflects the will of the people.”
Ssenyonyi emphasized that NUP has focused on nurturing morally upright leaders who serve with integrity and purpose. He expressed optimism for Uganda’s political future and the party’s role in shaping it.
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Financial Struggles Ahead of 2026 Elections
Despite the party’s progress, financial hurdles remain a major challenge. After the 2021 elections, NUP overtook the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to become Uganda’s official opposition, largely due to strong support from the Buganda sub-region, securing 57 parliamentary seats. However, some MPs have since distanced themselves from the party, creating new challenges.
Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, NUP faces a critical issue: self-funding. Under the amended Political Parties and Organisations Act (2005), political parties that refuse to join the National Consultative Forum (NCF) or engage in the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) are ineligible for public funding. NUP has consistently rejected engaging with President Museveni’s government through IPOD, citing a lack of good faith. As a result, the party was denied Shs7.5 billion in public funding.
Last month, Justice Minister Norbert Mao instructed the Electoral Commission to withhold funding from all political parties that fail to comply with the new legal requirements. In response, NUP has launched a fundraising campaign aimed at raising Shs9b to support its party activities and preparations for the 2026 elections. The party plans to rely on grassroots support, diaspora contributions, and private donations to finance its campaign efforts.
The Road Ahead for NUP
As NUP celebrates its five-year anniversary, the journey is far from over. The party remains committed to its goal of a free, just, and inclusive Uganda, despite facing political and financial obstacles. NUP’s resilience and determination, as evidenced by its continued growth and leadership, give hope to those who believe in the cause for democratic change in Uganda. With a clear vision for the future and ongoing efforts to improve internal democracy and leadership, NUP is positioning itself to play a key role in shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections.
