Multiple news reports confirm that the National Unity Platform (NUP) has experienced significant internal fractures and the departure of several members in 2025. While the term “foot sojas” refers to the grassroots base, the most prominent departures have been among high-ranking “commanders like Sauda Madada, Yunus Kabuye, Deni City(Prominent for carrying a ugandan flag at every function Bobi wine used to be) with reports also suggesting a broader loss of support at the local level.
Bobi wine had earlier antivipated to work with the Ghettos to disrupt the ruling government but most of the Ghetto commanders defected after the 2021 elections with their Ghetto followers to NRM. This explains why Bobi wine lost relevance in kampala streets and failed to even managed to put up a single demonstration like Besigye used to in the whole 5 year term.
NUP has failed to live to its promises since day one from their leader who promised several things before the 2021 general election but has since achieved non. It should be remembered that Bobi wine promised that Museveni would not rule for even a week without overthrowing him but has now finished his 5 years term and vying for another 5 years in office.
According to some NUP members, their reasons for departing the party include;
- Dissatisfaction with leadership: In June 2025, Dr. Abed Bwanika, now a DF treasurer, stated that thousands of disgruntled NUP members would follow the lead of high-ranking officials and exit the party. He accused NUP of “family dictatorship tendencies” and sidelining experienced leaders in favor of an inner circle.
- Internal vetting process: Ahead of the 2026 general elections, NUP has faced internal backlash over its candidate selection process.
- In September 2025, reports noted that rejected candidates were defecting to rival parties or running as independents, threatening to weaken NUP’s grassroots strength.
- Some “foot soldiers” also expressed disappointment after being denied party cards, arguing that their loyalty was not rewarded.
- They allege that the process was fully corrupt and those that didn’t bribe the EMC officers couldn’t get the party cards.
- Independent bids: In July 2025, Benjamin Kalyesubula, who claimed to be an NUP supporter, announced he would run as an independent presidential candidate. He cited a lack of transparency in the selection of the party’s flagbearer, Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), and alleged that the internal process lacked fair competition.
- Political realignment: The defections have sparked a new political realignment in Uganda, with the splinter Democratic Front challenging NUP for influence, particularly in the Buganda region.
- Loss of morale: The departure of key leaders and internal disputes have reportedly caused a loss of morale among some NUP loyalists, with some grassroots supporters reconsidering their support.
- Uncertainty for 2026: Analysts have warned that NUP’s internal turmoil and perceived strategic failures could cost the party significant ground in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.
