Political parties have reaffirmed their readiness to embrace new members while parting ways with those who no longer align with their values.
As more politicians prepare to break away from their mother parties ahead of the 2026 elections, party leaders say the shifting loyalties are not a crisis but a natural political evolution.
From the Democratic Party to the National Unity Platform and the Forum for Democratic Change, leaders insist they are prepared for departures and equally ready to welcome new loyal members.
Democratic Party’s Electoral Commission Chairperson, Kennedy Mutenyo, says that DP has long endured such challenges, noting that the situation was even worse in the 1960s.
He says those who left DP in 2021 now regret their decision, adding that the party is ready to replace anyone who chooses to leave.
“Those who left DP in 2021 are now regretting their decision,” Mutenyo said. “We’ve been through worse—the 60s were even more turbulent.”
He adds that politicians are always looking for opportunities, and such instability is typical in Uganda’s politics.
The National Unity Platform Secretary-General, Lewis Rubongoya, says the party is ready to release anyone who goes against its values and principles because many are already lining up to join.
“Anyone who deviates from our principles is free to leave. For every one that leaves, many are waiting to join,” Rubongoya stated.
The MPs for Nyendo-Mukungwe, Mathias Mpuuga, and Kimanya-Kabonera, Abeid Bwanika, are among those no longer aligned with their party, NUP.
They are expected to take a new path in 2026. Rubongoya says despite being formidable leaders, it is easy to replace them with loyal and grounded members.
As for the Forum for Democratic Change, it is now clear that those who left and camped at Katonga are preparing to contest under the People’s Front for Transition (PFT).
However, FDC says it remains strong, noting this is not the first time the party has faced such a situation. The party’s Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Robert Centenary, says they are now focused on fielding new candidates in positions where they lost members.
Centenary also notes that no one is locked out, and anyone who wants to return is welcome.