✍️By Bakinyumya Douglas Paapa Ov Uganda
(Political TV Producer & Host – @BDouglasPaapa)
05th /September /2025
A Shock Exit from Makindye East Race
Makindye East legislator Hon. Derrick Nyeko has announced that he will not seek re-election in the 2026 general elections, effectively ending his parliamentary career after just one term. His decision, delivered through a statement on his social media platforms, has set off a storm of speculation and debate within both the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the wider political space.
“After deep reflection, I have chosen not to seek another mandate. I am leaving politics with my record intact—no corruption, no problems,” Nyeko wrote, thanking his constituents for entrusting him with their vote and urging them to uphold “unity, resilience, and service.”
While he acknowledged that his decision may disappoint some of his supporters, Nyeko emphasized that the journey and victories shared with Makindye East residents remain undiminished.
Cracks in the House of Cards?
Nyeko’s withdrawal has triggered whispers about deeper tensions within NUP, particularly regarding the allocation of party tickets ahead of 2026. For weeks, aspirants across the country have been anxiously awaiting the release of the vetted candidate lists, sparking fears of internal divisions.
Some analysts suggest Nyeko’s exit could be an early sign of fractures in the NUP bloc. “Slowly but steadily, the house of cards appears to be crumbling,” remarked one observer. “If Nyeko has hung up his boots, who else among the incumbents may not survive the coming elections?”
Silent Protest or Strategic Move?
The big question remains: Why did Nyeko step down?
Speculation abounds. One school of thought suggests Nyeko may have anticipated being denied the NUP ticket and chose to leave gracefully rather than face internal humiliation. Others believe his decision was strategic—creating space within the Kampala political chessboard, particularly in the tense contest for the Kampala Woman MP NUP card, where Zahra Luyirika and Shamim Malende are locked in a fierce duel.
Public Reaction: Praise and Criticism
If true, Nyeko’s move could reflect a broader NUP strategy to prevent internal implosions by quietly balancing competing forces. By stepping aside, he may have given the party breathing space to manage one of its most volatile internal contests.
Reactions to Nyeko’s announcement were swift and polarized. His Facebook page was flooded with comments ranging from praise for his maturity to accusations of weakness.
“I think he knew they weren’t ready to give him a membership card,” one user, Don Gift Patience, observed.
“Finally the K.Y party has thrown you out,” added James Ayomire Bomera, hinting at internal power struggles within NUP.
Others, however, lauded his courage. “Such a decision is never from a weak point of view but rather a strong and mature mind,” noted supporter Drake Mutibwa.
Implications for Makindye East and Beyond
Nyeko’s withdrawal reshapes the Makindye East race and injects new uncertainty into the 2026 Kampala contests. With the seat now wide open, new aspirants are expected to emerge, while his political opponents recalibrate their campaign strategies.
For NUP, the development raises larger questions about internal cohesion, ticket distribution, and the party’s ability to manage its growing base without alienating loyal cadres. Supporters and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Nyeko’s exit is an isolated case—or the beginning of a wider reshuffle within Uganda’s leading opposition party.
Conclusion: A Calculated Exit or a Warning Shot?
Hon. Derrick Nyeko’s political journey may have been brief, but his departure is anything but insignificant. Whether it represents a silent protest against NUP’s internal politics or a calculated gesture to protect the party’s unity ahead of 2026, the ripple effects are already visible.
For Makindye East, the search for a successor begins. For NUP, the stakes are even higher: can the party manage its internal contradictions while presenting a united front in the face of a fierce electoral battle?
Nyeko may have stepped aside, but his exit has opened a new chapter in Kampala politics—one filled with uncertainty, intrigue, and a quiet reminder that in politics, silence can sometimes speak louder than words.
✍️ By Bakinyumya Douglas Paapa Ov Uganda
(Political TV Producer & Host – @BDouglasPaapa
