"When I Discussed To Bobi Wine About Taking Over Power From Him As The NUP President, He Started Disliking Me" MP Ssegona Narrates

Days after being denied the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag for the next year’s parliamentary elections, Hon. Medard Lubega Ssegona has revealed that he once had ambitions to become the party’s next president. The Busiro East MP was among several incumbents dropped by the party, a move that surprised many and stirred political controversy.

Speaking on Wednesday morning, Ssegona confirmed that he had privately discussed with NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, about the possibility of taking over party leadership in the future. He explained that he believed succession planning was important for the party’s stability and growth.

Ssegona admitted that he even made a public statement expressing his desire to succeed Bobi Wine when the time comes. “The party must always plan for leadership succession,” he said, emphasizing that preparing new leaders was vital for NUP’s long-term success.

Shortly after this public declaration, Ssegona held a one-on-one meeting with Bobi Wine, where he repeated his ambitions. According to Ssegona, Bobi Wine did not reject the idea but highlighted the importance of grooming a new leader to take over after his tenure.

In the meeting, Ssegona asked Bobi Wine whether speaking about succession was wrong. He recounted Bobi Wine’s response, stating, “...in the minds of idiots.” Ssegona explained that this was because Bobi Wine also agreed that NUP would need a new leader after he steps down.

Ssegona further explained that he disagreed with the strict two-term rule in the NUP constitution. Bobi Wine personally pushed for a limit of two presidential terms, which would see his leadership extend from 2026 to 2036. Ssegona, however, argued for a more flexible approach to party leadership.

The denial of the NUP flag for Busiro East went to local musician Matia Walukagga, leaving Ssegona sidelined. Political observers suggest this reflects a strategy by the party to prioritize fresh, grassroots-supported candidates over long-serving incumbents.

Despite the setback, Ssegona has remained calm and says he has not yet decided on his next political move. He noted that he is consulting his inner circle and will make a formal announcement regarding his future plans soon.

The incident highlights underlying tensions within NUP as the party navigates leadership succession and prepares for future elections. It also raises questions about how the party balances experienced politicians with emerging leaders.

For now, Ssegona’s ambitions and the party’s leadership strategies continue to generate discussion among political watchers, hinting at possible shifts in NUP dynamics as the 2026 elections approach.