Dr. Abed Bwanika, the Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, is making headlines again—but this time, it’s not for his legislative work.
The outspoken MP has announced plans to leave the National Unity Platform (NUP), the party that propelled him to victory in the 2021 elections.
His reason? A fundamental disagreement over the party’s stance on homosexuality.
This decision marks a dramatic shift for Bwanika, who once rode the wave of NUP’s youth-driven momentum to secure his seat.
Now, he’s doing a full 180, citing moral and ideological differences as the driving force behind his exit.
The Breaking Point
Bwanika’s departure is deeply tied to Uganda’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act, which has sparked global outrage and divided local politics.
The law, which imposes severe penalties—including life imprisonment and even the death penalty—for same-sex relationships, has been a lightning rod for debate.
While NUP has taken a more cautious approach, avoiding outright condemnation of the law, Bwanika has been vocal in his opposition to homosexuality.
“The party’s tolerance of homosexuality is unacceptable,” he stated. “I cannot align myself with a leadership that doesn’t uphold the values I stand for.”
This stance isn’t just about personal beliefs; it’s a calculated move to appeal to conservative voters in his constituency.
By positioning himself as a defender of traditional values, Bwanika is tapping into the same moral rhetoric that has fueled support for the Anti-Homosexuality Act.
Homo swagger
— Abed Bwanika (@AbedBwanika) January 29, 2025
Uganda is watching pic.twitter.com/eAH9zdfmEP
From NUP Darling to Political Free Agent
Bwanika’s exit is particularly striking given how he leveraged NUP’s grassroots energy to win his seat.
In 2021, NUP was the party of the moment, capturing the hopes of Uganda’s youth and disenfranchised voters. Bwanika, a seasoned politician, saw an opportunity and seized it.
But now, with the 2026 elections on the horizon, he’s betting on a different strategy.
“NUP has lost its way,” he declared. “I don’t see them making significant gains in the upcoming elections.”
What’s Next for Bwanika?
The MP is currently consulting with his constituents in Masaka to decide his next political home.
While he’s ruled out joining the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), he’s keeping his options open. One thing is clear: Bwanika is confident in his ability to retain his seat, regardless of party affiliation.
“I am committed to serving my people and will continue to fight for their interests,” he said.
A Broader Political Trend
Bwanika’s exit highlights the growing fractures within Uganda’s opposition.
As parties like NUP grapple with internal divisions and external pressures, politicians are increasingly willing to switch allegiances to secure their futures.
But this isn’t just about political survival. It’s about the soul of Uganda’s democracy. Will politicians prioritize principles over power? Or will they continue to pivot based on the prevailing winds?
One thing is certain: Abed Bwanika’s departure from NUP is more than a personal decision—it’s a reflection of the complex, often contentious, dynamics shaping Uganda’s political landscape.
