With the 2026 general elections drawing closer, the National Unity Platform (NUP) faces a potential legal showdown that could disrupt its political preparations, as its original founders seek a court order to suspend party activities.
The group, led by Moses Kibalama, has filed a fresh petition contesting the legitimacy of the current party leadership and its constitution. They argue that key decisions within NUP are being made without their involvement, and that the constitution adopted after the party’s rebranding in 2020 is unlawful.
The petitioners want court intervention to block all NUP activities ahead of the elections, a move that legal experts say could stall the opposition party’s mobilization efforts if granted.
In response, NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya dismissed the legal action as a distraction, warning that it is politically motivated and aimed at derailing the party’s momentum.
“These are individuals who voluntarily handed over the party and are now trying to destabilize it for selfish gain,” Rubongoya said. “We’re a fully registered political party operating within the law. Our focus is on preparing for 2026.”
Rubongoya emphasized that the transition of leadership was legal and that the party constitution was adopted in line with electoral and party registration regulations.
Busiro East MP and constitutional lawyer Medard Lubega Sseggona, who oversaw the drafting of the current NUP constitution, also weighed in, saying the founding members have no legal ground to reclaim control.
“That constitution was lawfully passed by the delegates’ conference. No one can unilaterally nullify it after relinquishing authority,” Sseggona noted.
This legal battle revives a pattern of internal wrangling that has periodically troubled NUP since it gained prominence under Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine). Analysts warn that the recurring disputes risk undermining the opposition’s cohesion ahead of a critical election.
The petition is now before court, and a ruling on whether to stay NUP’s activities could have significant consequences for the party’s election roadmap. Meanwhile, NUP leaders say they remain focused on candidate preparation, grassroots mobilization, and policy development despite the ongoing court drama.
