KAMPALA – A significant political shift appears to be underway within the National Unity Platform (NUP) structures in Wakiso District, exposing deep internal divisions just days before the party’s final list of flag bearers is released.
According to reliable sources close to the party’s nomination process, Busiro County East Member of Parliament, Hon. Medard Lubega Ssegona, suffered a major setback in his efforts to influence local politics. It has been revealed that all the candidates he openly backed for divisional councillorship positions within his constituency failed to secure the party’s flag.
Instead, the final list of approved candidates is dominated by individuals who have been closely allied with Mr. Mathias Walukaga, the current Mayor and a leading aspirant for the Busiro East parliamentary seat. This outcome has triggered celebrations within the Walukaga camp, which views it as a clear indicator of their growing influence and a validation of their strategy.
The situation has reportedly left Hon. Ssegona in a state of panic, with the clock ticking down to the announcement of the parliamentary flag bearers. His anxiety underscores the high-stakes nature of the contest, where losing the party nomination can effectively end a political career within the NUP framework.
This tension erupted into public view over the weekend when a visibly agitated Ssegona declared that he would not “give up his seat easily,” even if he is not nominated by the party. This statement has been widely interpreted as a hint that he may consider running as an independent candidate, a move that would significantly alter the dynamics of the race.
The Busiro East contest is shaping up to be a three-way battle under the same NUP umbrella. The incumbent, Ssegona, is facing a formidable challenge from Mayor Mathias Walukaga and businessman Mr. Magoola, who is noted for his substantial financial contributions to the party, including personally funding the pavers at the NUP headquarters in Kavule.
The outcome highlights a growing trend within political parties where MPs, like Mukono’s Betty Nambooze, wield significant influence over local leadership, including the fate of LC5 chairpersons. In this case, however, Hon. Ssegona’s influence seems to have been effectively checked by a rival faction, setting the stage for a fierce and divisive primary battle.
