Habib Buwembo, the Head of Mobilisation at the National Unity Platform (NUP), has firmly defended his decision not to contest for any parliamentary position in the 2026 general elections.
He told Bbeg Media in an interview that his choice stems from being relatively new to NUP and not holding a position on the National Executive Committee, credentials that could strongly support a parliamentary bid.
“As an experienced leader from my days in the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), when I joined this new party, I decided to prioritize building our party rather than pursuing parliamentary slots,” Buwembo said.
Buwembo contested against the late Kato Lubwama in Rubaga South in 2016 elections. He lost.
Buwembo, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from the Islamic University in Uganda, said his mobilization skills would greatly benefit NUP.
He noted that he regularly meets party supporters across Uganda who express trust and confidence in working with NUP to secure victory for their leader, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. [WATCH VIDEO INTERVIEW]
Buwembo, with nearly 11 years of political experience, stressed that his expertise should be used to strengthen the party by consolidating strongholds in various constituencies. He also expressed support for eligible comrades contesting for positions on the NUP ticket in 2026.
Addressing Mathias Mpuuga’s exit from NUP, Buwembo defended party leader Kyagulanyi, clarifying that there was no personal animosity toward Mpuuga. Instead, the disagreement was based on the principle of accountability, which Mpuuga failed to uphold.
Buwembo emphasized that NUP has zero tolerance for corruption, a vice he believes has denied Ugandans access to quality schools, hospitals, better roads, and other public services. He stressed the importance of leaders aligning their actions with their words.
Buwembo also criticized President Museveni for appointing his wife, Janet Museveni, as Minister of Education and Sports, a sector he claims she lacks expertise in, leading to its mismanagement. He warned that under Kyagulanyi’s leadership, corruption and nepotism would not be tolerated.
