The National Unity Platform (NUP) has unveiled its official lineup of parliamentary flagbearers for the 2026 general election, with the announcement sparking excitement, shock, and disappointment across the entertainment industry.
The list, released by the party’s Election Management Committee chaired by Harriet Chemutai, confirmed several entertainers who will carry the red banner into the race—while others were left behind.
The entertainment world has once again secured a strong presence in the political arena. Ivan Kyeyune, famed as the voice behind NTV Uganda’s Zungulu, clinched the NUP ticket for Nakasongola County.
Musician-turned-politician Geoffrey Lutaaya successfully defended his slot and will fly the NUP flag in Kakuuto Constituency, while comedian Muyonjo Hussein, popularly known as Swengere, emerged as the party’s choice for Jinja North.
Singer-turned-politician Hillary Kiyaga, popularly known as Dr. Hilderman, retained his flag for Mawokota North. Rising star Nina Kankunda, better known as Nina Roz, landed her first-ever ticket, representing NUP in the race for Sembabule Woman MP.
Veteran media personality Zambaali Bulasio Mukasa also triumphed, securing the Nansana Municipality flag ahead of musician Ibrahim Mayanja alias Big Eye, whose hopes were dashed.
In a stunning twist, celebrated kadongo kamu singer Mathias Walukagga pulled off a political upset by defeating seasoned legislator Medard Lubega Ssegona to secure the Busiro County East flag.
The unveiling, however, was not without heartbreak. Former NBS TV Head of News, Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa was denied the flag for Mityana Woman MP, which instead went to Mukisa Proscovia. Similarly, Mary Flavia Namulindwa missed out on the endorsement for Gomba East, despite an active grassroots campaign.
Entertainers Lubega Obeid Reign, who had hoped to represent Rubaga South, and Tuff B, who eyed Makindye East, were also denied tickets.
The mix of entertainers and media personalities on NUP’s ticket reflects the party’s continued embrace of popular culture to mobilise support. With stars like Lutaaya, Swengere, and Nina Roz stepping into the 2026 race, the intersection of entertainment and politics in Uganda is set to grow even louder—though for some, like Joyce Bagala, the red wave has temporarily passed them by.
