By BM
Makindye East Member of Parliament Derrick Nyeko has stirred political speculation after deliberately omitting any mention of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in his retirement announcement a notable move coming just days before the party is set to unveil its 2026 parliamentary flag bearers.
Nyeko, a first-term MP, had earlier picked nomination forms under NUP, signaling his intention to seek re-election.
However, sources within the Kavule-based party have confirmed that the party flag for Makindye East was handed instead to a female candidate.
This apparent sidelining by the party seems to have prompted Nyeko’s withdrawal, a decision he communicated through a Shorty and reflective Facebook post.
Yet, his failure to acknowledge NUP the party that propelled him to Parliament in 2021 stood out sharply.
“It is with a heart full of joy that I have served you with honour, respect, and a deep commitment never to betray the trust of your vote,” Nyeko wrote.
“After deep reflection, I have made the difficult decision not to offer myself for election in the coming polls. This choice does not diminish the journey we have walked together, nor the victories we have achieved.”
While Nyeko offered no direct criticism, the absence of any mention of the party or its leadership has sparked conversation among supporters and political observers alike, with some interpreting it as a quiet protest over internal handling of party primaries and candidate vetting.
Who is Derrick Nyeko?
Derrick Nyeko rose to national prominence in 2020 when he was elected as the NUP Member of Parliament for Makindye East, one of Kampala’s politically vibrant constituencies.
A vocal figure within the opposition, Nyeko became known for his passionate speeches on social justice, youth empowerment, and governance reforms.
Before entering Parliament, Nyeko served as a youth leader and activist in Kampala.
He gained respect among his peers for his organizational ability and commitment to community mobilization traits that eventually earned him the NUP ticket in the 2021 general elections, which he won convincingly.
In Parliament, Nyeko was part of several committees and often contributed to debates on urban development and local government reform.
His ability to connect with grassroots constituents and maintain a steady public presence made him a standout among the new breed of young opposition legislators.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
Following his announcement, Nyeko’s Facebook page was flooded with reactions ranging from praise to criticism.
“I think he knew that they weren’t ready to give him a membership card,” wrote Don Gift Patience.
“Finally the K.Y party has thrown you out,” said James Ayomire Bomera, referencing internal NUP politics.
Others, however, hailed his maturity.
“Such a decision is never from a weak point of view but rather a strong and mature mind,” wrote Drake Mutibwa.
Nyeko’s exit may close a chapter in Makindye East politics, but it opens new questions about NUP’s internal cohesion and candidate management ahead of 2026. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
