Mityana District Woman Member of Parliament Joyce Bagala has vowed to continue serving her constituents even after the National Unity Platform (NUP) dropped her as its flagbearer for the 2026 general elections.
Bagala, who rode the NUP wave to Parliament in 2021, has been replaced by newcomer Proscovia Mukisa, who will now carry the party’s flag in Mityana.
Speaking shortly after the announcement, Bagala expressed gratitude to her supporters and insisted that her political strength does not depend on a party card.
“Losing the party card is not the end of the journey. What matters most is not the card, but the trust and bond I share with my constituents. That is where my strength and legitimacy come from,” Bagala said.
She added: “I respect the party’s decision, but I also know that the people’s voice is louder than any endorsement. I will continue to walk with them.”
Bagala’s ties with NUP have been strained in recent years. She has been accused of defying party directives and maintaining a close working relationship with former Leader of the Opposition Mathias Mpuuga, who himself clashed with the party leadership.
Her critics within the party also pointed to her irregular attendance at NUP meetings, which sparked calls for her to apologise alongside other MPs accused of indiscipline.
Although she expressed willingness to apologise, Bagala insists that the party must first clarify the basis of its accusations.
“Apologising is human, and I’m open to it—but the party should tell me exactly what wrong I did,” she said in a recent interview.
Despite the setback, Bagala remains optimistic about her political future, signalling that her next move will be guided by the will of her constituents rather than party politics.
Incumbent Joyce Bagala and NUP flagbearer Proscovia Mukisa are set to face off with Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Nabakooba, who lost the seat to Bagala in 2021, is already mobilising for a strong comeback, reportedly buoyed by significant financial backing.
