By Aggrey Baba
KCCA speaker Zahara Luyirika, is in hot water over the Nakivubo drainage channel saga, a controversy that could throw a wrench in her bid for the NUP flag and dent her chances in the 2026 general election, as party insiders say the storm brewing around the alleged KCCA endorsement of the channel’s redevelopment by businessman Hamis Kiggundu (Ham) could end up being a double-edged sword for Luyirika.
The feud with Shamim Malende has been brewing since Luyirika ditched her Makindye West ambitions to eye the Kampala Woman MP seat, currently held by Malende, whose camp saw it as a direct attack, while Luyirika accused Malende of ignoring her constituents, spending more time away from Kampala than serving voters.
The tug-of-war turned nasty, with both camps trading political jabs, which forced the Kavule-based party leadership, led by Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya, who’s also aspiring for Kampala Central MP throne, and Butambala County MP, also Party deputy president for Buganda region, Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, stepping in to calm the waters, warning the contenders that continued mudslinging could cost them the party ticket. “Discipline is the backbone of our party,” Kivumbi said.
Just when the waters seemed calm, the Nakivubo saga erupted, rumors claiming Luyirika’s council had approved the giveaway of the drainage channel for redevelopment, a thing Luyirika dismissed, with claims as a smear campaign, insisting that her council never discussed any giveaway. She says the circulated list of alleged signatories is fake, aimed at sinking her political ship before it sails.
The row gained more heat when Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago backed the claims, saying his resolution for KCCA to partner with local developers had been rejected by the council whose wheel Luyirika steers. Luyirika says her actions have been twisted, turning a routine council matter into a political witch-hunt.
Observers warn that this Nakivubo fire could scorch Luyirika both within NUP and among the general public (voters), as it risks splitting party supporters and weakening her position ahead of 2026. On top of Malende, she faces Fatimah Mubiru, a recent JEEMA defector, while rival parties already have candidates ready, with the NRM fielding Amina Lukanga, and PFF backing Party founder, Kizza Besigye’s political aid, Obed Lutale’s wife, Mariam Obeid Lutale.
Party watchers say Luyirika must tread carefully, because the Nakivubo saga could either be the wind in her sails or the millstone around her neck. An Africa proverb goes, that he who digs a pit for others may end up falling in it himself. And those trying to trip her politically may end up rocking the boat for everyone.
The NUP leadership has made it clear that smear campaigns and threats will not be tolerated. For Luyirika, keeping her nose clean and navigating these muddy waters wisely will be key to staying afloat politically and securing a solid foundation for the 2026 elections. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
