Dr. Twaha Kagabo, the Member of Parliament for Bukoto South, has officially crossed the floor from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing ideological alignment and internal strife within his former party.
In a formal communication to the Deputy Speaker of Parliament and the Leader of the Opposition, Kagabo announced his defection, stating his intent to actively participate in NRM activities ahead of the 2026 general elections, including the party primaries.
“I am officially joining the ruling National Resistance Movement to fully participate in the party’s activities relating to the forthcoming general elections, including party primaries,” Kagabo wrote.
His move is permitted under Article 83 of the Ugandan Constitution, which allows Members of Parliament to switch political affiliations during the final 12 months of their term without forfeiting their seats.
Kagabo’s shift comes as Uganda intensifies preparations for the 2026 elections, and he now plans to seek re-election under the NRM ticket — a significant political realignment for Bukoto South.
This is not Kagabo’s first display of political repositioning. In 2023, while still a NUP member, he publicly associated with the MK Movement — a political pressure group led by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni.
His dual affiliations at the time drew criticism and questions about his loyalty to the opposition.
Following Gen. Muhoozi’s withdrawal from the 2026 presidential race and his endorsement of President Museveni, Kagabo said he found “ideological clarity” within the ruling party.
“I’m joining a party that has objectives that are close to those of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU),” he said.
Kagabo cited escalating tensions within NUP as a key factor behind his decision to leave, accusing the party of intolerance toward differing views and fostering a hostile environment.
“There’s no space for independent thinking. Whenever I voiced a different opinion, I was met with insults and threats,” he said, referencing what he described as radical elements within the opposition.
Official Welcome from the NRM
President Museveni formally welcomed Kagabo to the NRM during a caucus meeting at State House Entebbe in February 2024, several months before the public announcement.
The party leadership praised his decision, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen NRM’s support base in central Uganda.
Kagabo is now one of the most prominent opposition MPs to cross the floor during the current parliamentary term, a move that underscores both internal divisions within NUP and the NRM’s ongoing strategy to consolidate political dominance ahead of the next elections.
As the 2026 vote approaches, Kagabo’s defection reflects the fluid nature of Uganda’s political landscape, where shifting alliances and strategic realignments have become increasingly common.
While some critics question the timing and motivations behind his departure, Kagabo insists his decision was guided by principle, personal safety, and a commitment to more effective representation.
“My goal remains unchanged — to represent Bukoto South with integrity and effectiveness. I believe I can do that better within the NRM,” he said.
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