Why the National Unity Platform Should Reconsider Its Nakawa East Decision and Endorse Kassim Kibirige

The National Unity Platform (NUP), Uganda’s leading opposition party has built its brand on the promise of People Power a commitment to fairness, inclusivity and transparent leadership.

Yet, recent internal discontent over the party’s vetting process particularly in Nakawa East, threatens to undermine that foundation. The grievances raised by Kassim Kibirige a party loyalist and aspirant for the Nakawa East parliamentary flag highlight not only flaws in internal democracy but also the risk of alienating the grassroots base that forms the backbone of NUP’s political strength.

Kassim Kibirige represents the archetype of the new generation of leaders NUP promised to bring forth youthful, community-oriented and reform-driven. Over the years, Kibirige has cultivated deep ties with Nakawa East residents, championing issues of unemployment, education and service delivery long before the campaign season began.

His connection with the community is not transactional but built on consistent engagement and advocacy.

Denying such a figure the party flag despite his proven credibility sends a worrying signal to both supporters and potential candidates; that loyalty and grassroots connection may matter less than proximity to influential party insiders.

Transparency and Internal Democracy

At the core of Kibirige’s complaint is the lack of transparency in the vetting process. Allegations of decisions made “behind closed doors” and favoritism toward connected individuals erode confidence in NUP’s internal systems. For a party that seeks to replace the ruling establishment by advocating fairness, it cannot afford to mirror the same opaque practices it criticizes in government institutions.

Reconsidering the Nakawa East decision is therefore not merely about one candidate , it is about reaffirming the party’s credibility and demonstrating that it can hold itself to the same democratic standards it demands of others.

   Nakawa East’s Strategic Importance

Nakawa East is not just another constituency; it’s a politically strategic and urbanized area that reflects the diversity and intellectual energy of Kampala’s electorate. The seat demands a candidate who resonates with both ordinary citizens and the educated working class , someone with the moral authority and accessibility to bridge the two worlds.

Kibirige fits that profile. His campaign message of fairness, inclusion and practical solutions to everyday problems echoes the aspirations of Nakawa’s residents. Ignoring such a candidate risks alienating voters who view him as their authentic voice within the People Power movement.

     Cost of Internal Disunity

Discontent within party ranks, especially at the local level can have long-term political consequences. History shows that internal divisions are among the greatest threats to emerging political movements. When aspirants and their supporters feel betrayed or sidelined, they disengage or defect weakening the collective strength of the movement.

Kibirige’s grievances have already sparked disillusionment among Nakawa East’s youth structures many of whom see him as a symbol of hope. By reviewing his case and prioritizing merit over favoritism, NUP can not only restore confidence but also prevent fragmentation ahead of the 2026 elections.

     Upholding the Spirit of People Power

The People Power movement was born out of frustration with political exclusion, injustice, and patronage. Its moral compass lies in fairness, the belief that leadership should emerge from the will of the people not from backroom deals.

Revisiting Kibirige’s case gives NUP an opportunity to walk its talk. It would reaffirm that the party values integrity and merit over connections. Moreover, it would show Ugandans that NUP remains open to correction and capable of self-reflection qualities that distinguish genuine democratic movements from self-serving political machines.

Endorsing Kassim Kibirige for the Nakawa East flag is more than a political correction; it’s a reaffirmation of principle. NUP’s strength lies not just in its slogans but in its ability to practice what it preaches. By restoring fairness in Nakawa East, the party can turn a moment of internal tension into a powerful message of renewal one that reassures supporters that People Power still means power to the people.

If NUP is to remain the hope of a disillusioned generation, it must prove that fairness is not negotiable  and that leaders like Kassim Kibirige, who embody its founding values, deserve to be at the forefront of its mission for change.