The National Unity Platform (NUP) is facing internal strain following allegations that Nakawa Division Mayor Paul Mugambe and his deputy, Mutoni Shiko wife of singer and political activist Nubian Lee were planning a secret meeting with Gen. Salim Saleh, a senior official linked to State House.
According to reports by Let Out News, the NUP leadership was reportedly alarmed by the information, which quickly reached party president Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.
Sources within the party claim that Mugambe had convinced Mutoni that collaborating with influential figures in the ruling establishment was a pragmatic step toward political success. The proposed meeting in Gulu was allegedly meant to remain confidential and hidden from top party officials.
However, details of the plan are said to have leaked, prompting Kyagulanyi to summon Mutoni and her husband to his residence in Magere for an urgent meeting. Key figures present included NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya and party spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi.
At the meeting, Mutoni reportedly distanced herself from the plan, asserting that the idea originated from Mayor Mugambe and that she had intended to consult her husband before making any moves. Despite her explanation, Kyagulanyi is said to have issued a directive barring her from further political activities under the party and advised her to focus on her family instead.
Mayor Mugambe, on the other hand, was reportedly blacklisted from future party endorsements. Initially, Godfrey Luyombya was considered as a possible replacement, but further scrutiny raised concerns about his own loyalty to the party. As a result, Kyagulanyi is said to have endorsed Nubian Lee as the NUP flag bearer for the Nakawa mayoral race in the upcoming elections.
The leadership reshuffle extended further. In response to Mugambe’s alleged misconduct, Kyagulanyi reportedly instructed Eng. Ronald Balimwezo—Mugambe’s brother and the current Nakawa East MP—to shift focus from his parliamentary seat and instead contest for the more competitive Kampala Lord Mayor position, currently held by Erias Lukwago.
In Nakawa East, NUP fronted Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, the party’s deputy spokesperson, as its parliamentary candidate. However, internal reports suggest that Balimwezo has not been supportive of Mufumbiro’s campaign and is allegedly working behind the scenes to undermine his candidacy, including refusing to accompany him during community engagements.
These developments come at a time when NUP is under increased scrutiny and pressure to maintain internal unity ahead of the 2026 general elections. Party insiders say the leadership is working to reinforce internal discipline and safeguard the party’s integrity in the face of political infiltration and shifting loyalties.
