Makindye East MP Nyeko exits 2026 race amid NUP ticket battles
“I know this decision may not be easy for my team and supporters to receive, especially after our strong belief that we would once again win the Makindye East MP seat," he wrote.
Makindye East Member of Parliament Derrick Nyeko's decision to step down has opened up the race for the Makindye East parliamentary seat, setting the stage for new contenders to emerge. (Photos by Isaac Nuwagaba)
By Isaac Nuwagaba
Journalists @New Vision
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Makindye East Member of Parliament Derrick Nyeko has pulled out of the 2026 parliamentary race after allegedly realising that chances of attaining the highly demanded NUP ticket for easy sailing to Parliament are slim.
Nyeko, who is a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), cites deep reflection as the reason for his decision. However, sources close to the MP suggest that internal party developments may have played a significant role in pressuring him to resign.
The timing of Nyeko's exit has raised eyebrows, especially after reports indicated he had been actively campaigning with his line of councillors missing out on party tickets, which the environment tipped Nyeko to miss out.
Announced through a statement posted on his verified X account, thanking his constituents for their support over the years and reflecting on his time in office, Nyeko acknowledged strong support but decided to give way for others.
“I know this decision may not be easy for my team and supporters to receive, especially after our strong belief that we would once again win the Makindye East MP seat," he wrote.
“However, after deep reflection, I have made the difficult decision not to offer myself for election in the coming polls," he clarified.
Sources within the party suggest that Nyeko may have been tipped off that he would not be given the flag, leading him to step aside early to avoid the embarrassment.
MP Makindye East Derrick Nyeko (middle) at the NUP offices in Makerere, Kavule.
“During the closed-door vetting, Nyeko got only 39% for vetting by the NUP electoral management committee and 39% on the ground, which meant that he was a failure and no longer had public appeal to the voters,” the leaked vetting list claimed.
"I remain the man of no corruption, no problems," he stated.
“I have served with honour, respect, and a deep commitment never to betray the trust of your vote," he insisted.
Nyeko's tenure as MP has been marked by his outspoken advocacy for social justice, youth empowerment and governance reforms, but he would never get involved in core revolutionary schemes that the NUP establishment under party president, Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi wanted done.
Nyeko's decision to step down has opened up the race for the Makindye East parliamentary seat, setting the stage for new contenders to emerge.
“This choice does not diminish the journey we have walked together, nor the victories we have achieved. It is my hope that the spirit of unity, resilience, and service to our people will remain stronger than ever,” he regretted.
The NUP individuals who have shown interest in Nyeko's current seat, include Robert Ssekidde, David Musiri Kamanda, Mosh Ssendi Afrikan, Ali Kasirye Nganda Mulyanyama and the independent Dr Stanely Ssempijja.
NUP lists send panic to sitting MPs
The NUP’s decision to release the list of flag bearers comes after a rigorous vetting process, which involved over 3,600 aspirants vying for various positions within the party.
The selection process was designed to ensure that candidates align with the party’s values and have the support of the electorate, Harriet Chemutai, the NUP party electoral management chairperson said.