In a bold stride toward the 2026 general elections, National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, on Wednesday unveiled seven new Members of Parliament who have officially joined his party, reinforcing NUP’s grip as Uganda’s most dominant opposition force.
The announcement, delivered during a lively press conference at the party’s headquarters in Kamwokya, Kampala, drew considerable attention as both seasoned legislators and new faces pledged allegiance to what Kyagulanyi described as a “revolutionary struggle.”
“We have been very honored to welcome into the National Unity Platform, this afternoon, Members of Parliament who have officially joined the Party. You’re very welcome to home, our Honourable comrades,” Kyagulanyi declared, standing shoulder to shoulder with the newest entrants.
The MPs crossing over include:
Hon. Luttamaguzi Ssemakula Paulson Kasana (Nakaseke South County), formerly with the Democratic Party (DP)
Hon. Joan Namutaawe (Woman MP, Masaka District)
Hon. Nsanja Patrick Kayongo (Ntenjeru South)
Hon. Nantongo Fortunate (Woman MP, Kyotera District)
Hon. Lukwago John Paul Mpalanyi (Kyotera County)
Hon. Batuwa Timothy Lusala (Jinja Municipality West)
Hon. Isabirye David Aga (Jinja North Division
The NUP leader also revealed that the party had welcomed over 470 new members that same afternoon, signaling what he sees as a nationwide hunger for change.
“Despite the regime stepping up the persecution of supporters of the NUP, we continue to attract new members into the Party,” Kyagulanyi stated. “This afternoon, we formally welcomed over 470 of them.”
Adding a notable twist to the day’s events was the entry of celebrated journalist Zambaali Bulasio, a former NBS Amasengejje news anchor, who announced his departure from the newsroom for the political arena. Zambaali will now seek election as Member of Parliament for Nansana Municipality on the NUP ticket.
Bobi Wine attributed the momentum to Ugandans’ growing frustration with the status quo and their desire for meaningful transformation.
The influx of new members, he believes, underscores that the opposition’s message is resonating strongly with citizens across the country.