As Uganda gears up for its general elections scheduled for January 12th, 2026, political alignments are already shifting, especially within the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The 2021 elections rode on a wave of change and youthful energy, but several MPs who benefited from that momentum may not make it back. Some have fallen out with the party, others are pursuing different paths, and a few simply haven’t met the expectations of their electorate.
Here’s a look at ten NUP MPs we believe may not be returning to Parliament in 2026:
1. Bagala Joyce Ntwatwa
The Mityana Woman MP and former journalist has fallen out of favor with the party grassroots due to her alignment with Mathias Mpuuga.
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Her absence from party events and pressers has raised eyebrows, and with internal politics at play, her political future within NUP looks uncertain.
2. Balimwezo Ronald Nsubuga
The Nakawa East MP has made it clear he won’t seek re-election for his current seat, as he’s now eyeing the Lord Mayorship of Kampala.
His shift opens the door for other NUP members, such as Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, to step into the race.
3. Bwanika Abed
Representing Kimaanya-Kabonero, Bwanika publicly criticized NUP’s treatment of Mpuuga and its unclear stance on the anti-homosexuality law.
With Masaka being a key NUP stronghold, a party ticket might be out of reach for him in 2026.
4. Kagabo Twaha Mzee
The Bukoto County MP has already left NUP for the ruling NRM and openly subscribes to Gen. Muhoozi’s PLU movement.
His transition away from NUP marks the end of his journey with the opposition party.
5. Kazibwe Bashir Mbaziira
The Kawempe South MP has disappointed many of his supporters with a low-profile term and limited engagement.
His lack of presence in media and on the parliamentary floor has fuelled calls for change from within the party and electorate.
6. Kiyaga Hillary Innocent (Dr. Hilderman)
MP for Mawokota North, Kiyaga is facing potential competition from Amelia Kyambadde, whom he unseated in 2021.
With unclear relations with the party and his own statement that he won’t run without the party ticket, his return is highly uncertain.
7. Lutaaya Geoffrey
Representing Kakuuto County in Kyotera, Lutaaya’s political presence has been subdued.
While he hasn’t publicly fallen out with NUP, his limited activism and visibility could weaken his chances in 2026.
8. Malende Shamim
One of the most active female MPs in the opposition, Malende’s parliamentary career has been hampered by serious health challenges.
She has spent much of the past two years hospitalized, making it difficult to stay connected with her constituents.
9. Mpuuga Mathias
The Nyendo-Mukungwe MP had a dramatic fallout with NUP over the controversial Shs500 million gratuity payment.
Refusing to apologize or step down, Mpuuga launched his own political platform, Democratic Alliance, and might even aim for the presidency, leaving his seat open.
10. Nyeko Derrick
The Makindye East MP faces growing competition, with several individuals already expressing interest in his seat.
While he hasn’t had any major scandals, the race for his constituency in 2026 is shaping up to be a heated one.
