Sylvia Namutyaba, the National Unity Platform (NUP) youth representative for Buganda on the party’s National Executive Committee, has conceded defeat in the Wakiso Woman Member of Parliament race.
Ms Namutyaba has since pledged unwavering support for the party’s endorsed candidate, incumbent Betty Ethel Naluyima.
In a heartfelt statement to residents of Wakiso and the youth of Buganda, Namutyaba reflected on her years of community service, activism, and political mobilization, noting that her journey was guided by dedication to national liberation rather than personal ambition.
“My journey in service to our nation, inspired by the visionary leadership of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has been one of tireless dedication,” she said, citing her work in community empowerment, social justice, and advocacy across multiple regions.
Namutyaba also highlighted the personal sacrifices that came with her activism, including periods of incarceration, all undertaken in pursuit of “freedom and justice for all Ugandans.”
Acknowledging her unsuccessful bid for the Wakiso Woman MP flag, she stressed that the result would not deter her commitment to the movement’s cause.
“While I was not selected to carry the party flag, my resolve remains absolute. I will not be contesting as an independent candidate,” she declared.
“Instead, I commit to following the leadership of the flag-bearers endorsed by our party in Wakiso and across Uganda, uniting our efforts in this crucial protest vote aimed at bringing about the change we so desperately need.”
She encouraged other aspirants who did not secure the party ticket to stay focused on the ultimate goal of transforming Uganda’s governance.
“To the comrades who, like me, offered themselves for service but did not secure the party card, let us pause, reflect, and remember that the fight to free our country is far greater than any single political office,” Namutyaba said.
Namutyaba congratulated those victorious in the party’s vetting process and pledged her full backing in the upcoming campaigns.
“You have my full support, and I promise to work diligently behind you to ensure that the vision for a free and democratic Uganda is realized,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude to NUP leadership for what she described as a transparent and democratic selection process, adding that “every decision made was intended to advance our shared revolutionary struggle.”
“To the people of Wakiso and the youth of Buganda, thank you for your unwavering support. Let us continue to push forward relentlessly until victory is ours,” she concluded.
Namutyaba’s concession comes amid ongoing internal discussions within NUP following its flag-bearer selection exercises ahead of the 2026 general elections, as the party urges unity, discipline, and commitment to its broader mission of change.
