Political analysts have weighed in on the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) recent move to reconcile with its estranged members, warning that while the initiative signals political maturity, it could also deepen internal divisions if not handled carefully.
NUP has issued a 30-day ultimatum to its Members of Parliament and other leaders who have fallen out with the party leadership, asking them to return, apologize, and formally recommit to the party values—or risk loss of their party tickets ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The party’s Deputy President for Buganda region, Muwanga Kivumbi, made the announcement while addressing party leaders and aspiring candidates from Buganda at the party headquarters in Kavule.
He emphasized that the gesture was not out of weakness but rather a final opportunity for reconciliation before decisive action is taken.
"President I am asking that you give them one month and they come and apologize failure of which we shall go after them in their constituencies," he said.
Party President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) echoed the call, urging unity among party members as they prepare for the 2026 elections.
"The time is far spent, I don't think we still have one month. But as asked by the deputy president we'll go with that and see," said Kyagulanyi
Among the MPs mentioned in the ongoing standoff are Mathias Mpuuga (Nyendo-Mukungwe), Dr. Abed Bwanika (Kimaanya-Kabonera), Jimmy Lwanga (Njeru Municipality), Bashir Kazibwe Mbazira (Kawempe South), Joyce Bagala (Mityana District Woman MP), Dr. Twaha Kagabo (Bukoto South), and Michael Kakembo (Entebbe Municipality).
NUP Secretary General, David Lewis Rubongoya, clarified that any decision about reconciliation would be influenced by voters themselves.
“These leaders must first apologize to their constituents. Ultimately, the people will decide if they deserve to represent them again,” he said.
However, political scholars have expressed mixed feelings about the timing and nature of the reconciliation. Rogers Barigayomwe, a political science lecturer at Kampala International University, warned that such efforts, while noble, should have been initiated earlier.
“This kind of reconciliation should have started at the onset of the fallout. Doing it now, just months before the general elections, for political reasons risks the value of the Party," said Barigayomwe.
One of the MPs involved in the standoff told Nile Post that they have never disrespected the party and are willing to face the consequences of their decisions.
"When you ask someone to apologize, you must first explain their offense to them after which they can apologize," said Mityana district woman MP, Joyce Bagala in an interview with Nile post.
The ultimatum comes just eight months to the next general election and raises key questions about how many of the affected MPs will seek reconciliation—or chart a different political course altogether.