Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has called on the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) to withdraw from Uganda’s presidential race, arguing that the party is too divided and weak to govern effectively.
Speaking at a fundraising drive for St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Nyendo, Masaka City, on Sunday, Nabbanja pointed to NUP’s leadership crisis and internal divisions as evidence of its limitations.
“State House is not for everyone,” she told the congregation.
“NUP knows very well that they cannot manage this country. They have already failed and even split to form DF. That alone shows their level of weakness.”
Nabbanja further advised the Democratic Front (DF), a new political formation led by former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga, to forge alliances with older parties such as the Democratic Party (DP) and eventually work with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“I advise DF and other small parties to stop wasting time in endless wrangles. Instead, they should join NRM so that together we can serve Ugandans better,” she said, insisting that only the ruling party has the structure and stability to deliver services.
The Premier also criticized opposition politicians in Masaka for claiming credit for government-implemented infrastructure projects.
“Let no one deceive you. These roads are government projects, not Namayanja's or her opposition projects. No opposition leader has built a road here,” she warned.
The fundraising event drew a large crowd of worshippers and well-wishers, with Masaka Diocese Bishop Serverus Jjumba presiding over mass and encouraging unity among Christians.
“Do not grow weary in doing good. With faith and determination, this church will be completed. Let us focus our hearts on the Holy Spirit and support one another,” he said.
During the ceremony, President Museveni contributed Shs20 million, Prime Minister Nabbanja added Shs10 million and 300 iron sheets, while area MP Mathias Mpuuga donated Shs5 million.
In response to Nabbanja’s remarks, Mpuuga struck a conciliatory tone, warning leaders against mixing partisan politics with community development.
NUP officials present declined to comment directly, though party insiders have previously accused government of using public events to undermine the opposition.
The fundraising highlighted growing tension between government and opposition in Masaka, a region long considered an opposition stronghold.
Nabbanja’s call for NUP to quit the presidential race and for DF to merge with NRM is likely to fuel debate over Uganda’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections.
