National Unity Platform’s (NUP) deputy spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, boldly stated that there are no plans for a political alliance with Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga group in the upcoming 2026 general elections. Mufumbiro emphasized NUP’s commitment to serious political engagement, citing the necessity of shared political addresses and agendas.
The revelation follows an investigation by the media, uncovering internal dissent regarding a proposed political deal between Bobi Wine’s camp and Dr. Besigye’s Katonga group. Sources suggested that this potential alliance faced resistance from Bobi Wine’s advisors, who were wary of being instrumentalized for Besigye’s political ambitions.
Allegations surfaced that the rift between Besigye and Mafabi stemmed partly from conflicting interests related to Winnie Byanyima’s potential presidential candidacy. Mafabi claimed that Besigye wanted Byanyima to run on the FDC ticket in 2026, creating tension as he eyed the same nomination.
In a meeting between Bobi Wine and Besigye, the latter assured NUP’s leader that Byanyima wouldn’t contest but would offer support. Despite initial enthusiasm from Bobi Wine, concerns were raised among his colleagues, warning of potential betrayal by Besigye in the eleventh hour.
Political activist Robert Mayanja revealed ongoing talks between Bobi Wine and Besigye since 2021, suggesting continued collaboration between NUP and FDC. Mayanja dismissed rumors of collapsed talks, emphasizing the common struggle against a shared enemy.
Amid internal dynamics, Bobi Wine’s elder brother, Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, faced accusations of influencing Bobi Wine against collaborating with Besigye in 2026, purportedly due to the Lord Mayor Ssalongo Erias Lukwago’s factor. Nyanzi declared his intention to challenge Lukwago, sparking competition within NUP for the mayoral seat.
While Mayanja asserted Nyanzi’s inability to defeat Lukwago, FDC’s Electoral Commission Chairperson, Micheal Kabaziguruka, expressed confidence in FDC’s grassroots support, indicating minimal impact if NUP declined collaboration.
Internal frustrations led Besigye to propose maintaining FDC’s independent existence, utilizing grassroots support to sideline Mafabi and Amuriat. However, disagreements emerged on the idea of forming a new political party, with some suggesting the National Revolutionary Party (NRP) as an alternative.
Despite varied opinions on the new party’s name, Besigye remained skeptical, foreseeing a repetition of the challenges faced by the original FDC. Meanwhile, discussions indicated Kira Municipality legislator Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda’s potential shift to NUP, prompting conflicting reactions among NUP foot soldiers in Kira.
Ssemujju’s rumored plan to join NUP raised concerns among Lukwago’s supporters, fearing exclusion from the party ticket in the 2026 parliamentary elections. The ongoing political landscape suggests complex negotiations and strategic alignments as parties navigate alliances and rivalries in preparation for the upcoming elections.
