NUP seeks to raise over sh10b to fund 2026 campaigns

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The National Unity Platform (NUP) has launched a nationwide fundraising drive aimed at raising over sh10 billion to support its candidates in the 2026 general elections. The initiative is intended to equip NUP candidates with the necessary resources to effectively campaign and represent the party’s values in various electoral contests.

The decision to initiate the drive comes as the party prepares for the forthcoming elections. With a strong base in some parts of the country, NUP is determined to consolidate its support and broaden its reach.

Party president Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi launched the campaign at the NUP headquarters in Makerere-Kavule on Monday, July 7. He said the fundraising effort would target party supporters, sympathisers and well-wishers both within Uganda and across the diaspora.

The Nakawa East Member of Parliament Ronald Balimwezo who was appointed as the chairperson fundraising committee kneeling down to appreciate party president Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi (Photo by Isaac Nuwagaba)

“We are urging everyone to contribute generously to support our candidates. The funds raised will be used to provide financial assistance to NUP candidates for campaign activities and other operational costs, including staffing, logistics and communication. We hope to raise over sh10 billion to facilitate our campaigns,” Kyagulanyi said.

“Not only shall we be receiving cash but also other support, especially printing of banners, T-shirts, food and fuel during our campaigns for those who seek a just Uganda after 40 years of military dictatorship,” he added.

Kyagulanyi decried a recent development following the passing of the amended Political Parties and Organisations Bill 2025, which conditions government funding for political parties on their commitment to democratic principles such as tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful co-existence.

“Our funding was cut,” he lamented. “The quarterly money we were receiving has shrunk, and that is why we are taking this case to the public to support pro-people governance rather than Museveni-bent democracy, which does not value the contribution of a just society.”

Kyagulanyi appoints three-member fundraising committee

“I have opened this fundraising drive with sh10 million. I have appointed Eng. Ronald Balimwezo as the fundraising chairman, Hajjat Fatumah Kassim as the deputy chairperson, and Christine Kaaya as the secretary of the fundraising committee,” he disclosed.

Kyagulanyi added: “With this money, we seek to show a big difference in accountability and impact compared to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), which organised a fundraising to construct party offices, received sh16 billion but has never even started on the foundation, which is shameful.”

Leader of Opposition and Nakawa West MP Joel Ssenyonyi, along with NUP deputy president for Buganda region, each contributed sh30 million. Most constituency MPs contributed over sh10 million.

District Woman MPs contribute sh3m

Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze and Mawokota South MP Gorreth Namugga each contributed sh10 million. The rest of the women MPs present gave sh3 million each.

“I can’t emulate other women who have decided to give only sh3 million. I have to be a man in my constituency and contribute sh10 million,” Namugga said.

MPs at risk of losing party cards contribute less

The NUP electoral management committee (EMC) has come under fire for a lack of transparency in the fundraising drive, with the top leadership facing criticism for launching the initiative without first releasing the full list of flagbearers for the upcoming elections.

NUP party president Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi handing over his sh10 million cheque at NUP party headquarters after the launch of fundraising (Photo by Isaac Nuwagaba)

Hunter Sseguya, a NUP diaspora member, said the lack of clarity undermines the party’s commitment to accountability and makes it difficult for supporters to invest in a cause without knowing who and what they are funding.

“There were very many women MPs who contributed only sh3 million because they were tipped that they are among those who will not receive party cards. Contributing to a struggle which lacks transparency and accountability leaves some supporters and leaders unsure of what to do next,” he said.

When contacted, NUP EMC chairperson Harriet Chemutai said the nomination process is ongoing and will end on July 25, 2025. She explained that they could not wait until nominations are finalised to begin fundraising.

“Those NUP supporters, leaders and well-wishers who want to contribute to our cause can see that we do not have enough time to mobilise because the government made it difficult for us to do open consultations, as the NRM was doing under the cover of the Parish Development Model (PDM) to mobilise support throughout the country,” Chemutai said.

Those who contributed sh3 million include Wakiso district woman MP Betty Naluyima, Buvuma Island woman MP Susan Mugabi, and Mityana district woman MP Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa, among others.

Implications for the 2026 elections

Fundraising chairperson Ronald Balimwezo said the drive would play a vital role in shaping the party’s strategy and enhancing its preparedness for the 2026 elections.

“By raising funds, the party can support its candidates and increase its chances of winning seats. This development may also influence the party’s overall strategy and messaging in the lead-up to the elections,” he said.

Mukono district chairperson Bakaluba Mukasa also hailed the initiative as an important step in the party’s preparation.

“By raising funds, the party can support its candidates and promote its agenda. As the party navigates the challenges ahead, its success will depend on its ability to mobilise support, manage its internal dynamics, and adapt to the changing electoral landscape,” Bakaluba noted.

With careful planning and strategic decision-making, NUP hopes to lay a strong foundation for success in the 2026 elections and beyond.