Jude Mbabaali, the National Unity Platform (NUP) parliamentary aspirant for Kimanya-Kabonera in Masaka City, has issued a stern warning to Dr Abed Bwanika, the Democratic Front’s treasurer and his political rival, over his persistent verbal attacks on NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.
Mbabaali, a former Masaka district chairman, made these remarks during a recent interview with Bbeg Media at the NUP headquarters in Kavule, Kampala.
“My supporters and the people of Kimanya-Kabonera have urged me to stand and defeat Bwanika, who spends much of his time disparaging our party leader instead of focusing on his parliamentary duties to serve his constituents,” Mbabaali said.
He further claimed that Bwanika’s actions have undermined NUP’s support base, alienating Ugandans who might otherwise join the leading opposition party in Uganda. Mbabaali, a lawyer by profession, argued that his legal background equips him with a better understanding of legislation compared to Bwanika, a veterinary doctor by training.
He asserted that this makes him better suited to represent Kimanya-Kabonera effectively in Parliament.
Drawing on his tenure as Masaka District chairman, Mbabaali urged residents to back his candidacy, citing his track record in combating land grabbing, advocating for improved service delivery, and promoting agricultural development.
He highlighted his contributions to the creation of Kimanya-Kabonera, which included enhanced road infrastructure, access to electricity, and a boost to the city’s business environment. “If elected to Parliament, I will build on these achievements and deliver even more for my constituents,” he promised.
Mbabaali also pledged to prioritise access to clean water, mechanised agricultural equipment, and markets for local produce. The veteran politician, who recently defected from the Democratic Party (DP) to NUP, expressed confidence in his strong grassroots support, bolstered by endorsements from religious institutions, including churches and mosques in the area.
He further noted that NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has personally endorsed his bid to defeat Bwanika in the 2026 elections.
Bwanika, alongside other prominent former NUP members such as Mathias Mpuuga (former Leader of Opposition and MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe), Michael Kakembo (Entebbe Municipality), and Juliet Kakande (Masaka City Woman MP), defected to the Democratic Front ahead of the 2026 elections, strengthening the rival party’s position.
