Aisha Kabanda, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Women’s Representative for Butambala, has defended her party’s flag bearer selection process for the 2026 general elections, amid allegations of favoritism and external influence in Uganda’s main opposition party.
Speaking during an interview on NBS television, Kabanda addressed concerns over the transparency of the vetting process, which has drawn criticism from within NUP’s own ranks.
“Our selection process is guided by the constitution. Article 12(iii) makes it clear that any National Executive Committee member who wishes to stand must first step aside,” Kabanda said. “That’s not just a rule—it’s a safeguard for fairness.”
The NUP constitution requires NEC members to recuse themselves from candidate selection if they intend to run for elective office. T
he provision, now under intense focus, comes as more than 3,622 aspirants seek party endorsements across various positions ahead of the 2026 vote.
The process is unfolding under the shadow of lingering criticisms from the 2021 elections, when NUP faced accusations of favoritism and making false promises during candidate vetting.
Kabanda urged members to focus on the party’s broader mission rather than internal rivalries.
“We must remember what we’re fighting for—real change in the lives of Ugandans, not personal advancement. Every party will face internal pressure in an election season, but our commitment to transparency remains firm,” she noted.
As Uganda edges closer to 2026, the NUP’s ability to preserve internal cohesion and maintain public credibility could prove as decisive as its campaign promises.
Kabanda’s remarks appear aimed at reinforcing unity within the party while assuring supporters that lessons from 2021 have informed reforms.
