By Aggrey Baba
As the National Unity Platform (NUP) prepares for the 2026 polls, the battle for Makindye West constituency is heating up, with incumbent Allan Ssewanyana facing stiff competition from rivals inside the party.
Ssewanyana, who has represented the constituency since 2016, is reportedly struggling to win back the trust of NUP leaders after years of tension. His political career suffered when he spent a long period in prison battling murder and terrorism charges, and when he was accused by some party supporters of cutting deals with the NRM, part of which led to his release, together with former Kawempe North MP Mohammad Ssegirinya (rip).
Although he has recently sided with NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi in disputes with other Opposition figures like Nyendo-mukungwe legislator, Mathias Nsamba Mpuuga, many in Kavule remain cautious. His efforts to mend fences have been described as “too little, too late,” and several aspirants have already stepped forward to replace him.
Among the challengers is Ali Nganda Mulyanyama, the outgoing Mayor of Makindye Division, who believes his decade of service gives him the edge. Also in the running is David Musiri, a young activist whose repeated arrests have earned him popularity among NUP’s foot soldiers.
The race is further complicated by the constituency’s history. Since its creation, Makindye West voters have rarely allowed MPs to serve more than two terms. Both Yusuf Nsambu and the late Hussein Kyanjo, who set a high standard with his fearless advocacy for Buganda’s interests, stepped aside after serving twice, a tradition which now hangs over Ssewanyana’s third-term bid like a dark cloud. He has severally been heard in the media asking for one more term (from both the party and voters) saying he spent a very big part of this year in prison, and he should be given more time to represent his voters, in compensation.
Observers say the contest is shaping into a test of loyalty and legacy within NUP. While Ssewanyana banks on his past bravery in defending Opposition causes, his rivals argue it is time for fresh energy. The wisdom of the elder does not stop the youth from taking the front line, a proverb goes. And with the party flag yet to be decided, the future of Makindye West remains uncertain. However, what is clear is that the constituency, long a hotbed of Opposition politics, is once again preparing to decide who carries its voice to Parliament. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
