I will not seek re-election with NUP, says Dr Twaha Kagabo

The Member of Parliament for Bukoto South, Dr. Twaha Kagabo, has announced that he will not be running for re-election under the National Unity Platform (NUP) in 2026.

Speaking to NBS, the controversial legislator expressed his intention to be on the ballot, but he is uncertain about which political party he will align with.

"We will be exploring options with other political parties where I might find a suitable platform. I have decided not to extend my term with NUP and instead, make a 'boss man transfer' to another political club," he stated.

Kagabo has been openly critical of NUP's political objectives and strategies, expressing his disillusionment with the party's approach.

He likened their approach to "gala football" and questioned their ability to succeed in the political "league."

Despite being elected to Parliament on a NUP ticket, Kagabo has consistently expressed his disagreement with certain party ideologies.

He has also shown affiliations with the MK movement and has been recognized as an NRM well-wisher.

In a notable incident in 2022, Kagabo made headlines when he delivered Shs 40 million to the office of the former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga.

He claimed that the money originated from the Speaker of Parliament's residence, Anita Annet Among, in Nakasero, for an unspecified activity.

Kagabo attributed his actions to a directive from Robert Kyagulanyi, the president of NUP, stating that party MPs who received such funds were instructed to return them. However, he later apologized to the Speaker, acknowledging that he had unintentionally tarnished the image of the Parliament by returning the alleged bribe.

Before the Shs 40 million controversy, Kagabo was a relatively unnoticed backbencher in the House.

However, the incident propelled him into the spotlight. He further distinguished himself as the only NUP legislator to defy the Shadow cabinet's resolution by attending a parliamentary sitting at Kololo Ceremonial grounds, where the President addressed the House in March of that year.

Explaining his decision, Kagabo emphasized his belief that the opposition was no longer reliable and stated that his primary focus was representing the people of Bukoto South, signalling a shift away from strict party lines.

Kagabo's political journey has sparked discussions and reflections on the intricate dynamics within NUP and the broader political landscape in Uganda.