Days after being denied the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag for 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 NUP, a move that surprised many and sparked political debate.
Speaking on Wednesday morning, Ssegona confirmed that he had privately discussed with NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, the possibility of taking over the party’s leadership in the future. He stressed that succession planning is crucial for the party’s long-term stability and growth.
Ssegona admitted that he even made a public statement expressing his intention to succeed Bobi Wine when the time comes. “The party must always plan for leadership succession,” he said, emphasizing that preparing new leaders is essential for NUP’s continued success.
Shortly after this public declaration, Ssegona met one-on-one with Bobi Wine to reiterate his ambitions. According to Ssegona, Bobi Wine did not outright reject the idea but highlighted the importance of grooming a new leader to take over after his tenure.
During the discussion, Ssegona asked whether speaking about succession was inappropriate. He recounted Bobi Wine’s response: “…in the minds of idiots.” Ssegona explained that this was because Bobi Wine agreed that the party would need a new leader after his time ends.
Ssegona also disagreed with the strict two-term limit in the NUP constitution. While Bobi Wine favors a two-term cap extending his presidency from 2026 to 2036, Ssegona argued for a more flexible approach to party leadership.
The NUP flag for Busiro East was instead awarded to local musician Matia Walukagga, leaving Ssegona sidelined. Analysts suggest this move reflects the party’s strategy to favor fresh, grassroots-backed candidates over long-serving incumbents.
Despite the setback, Ssegona remains composed and has not yet decided on his next political move. 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 upcoming elections. It also raises questions about how the party balances experienced politicians with emerging leaders.
For now, Ssegona’s ambitions and NUP’s leadership strategies continue to generate discussion among political observers, hinting at possible shifts in the party’s dynamics as the 2026 elections approach.
