Tears Flow as Defeated Nansana MP Aspirant ‘NUP Commander 001’ Breaks Down Over Shs600m Debt, Seeks New Home in NRM

Steven Kaweesa, popularly known as “NUP Commander 001,” has publicly broken down in tears while recounting the devastating financial consequences of his failed bid for the Nansana Municipality parliamentary seat in Uganda’s 2026 general elections.

Kaweesa, who also serves as LC1 Chairperson of Katooke Village in Nansana Municipality, made the remarks at a function attended by Nansana Resident District Commissioner Charles Lwanga. Those present, including the RDC himself, moved to console him as he struggled to speak.

“My problems started when I was denied the NUP party card,” Kaweesa said. “I was forced to contest as an independent candidate, and that decision has cost me everything.”

Kaweesa had competed for the National Unity Platform’s parliamentary ticket alongside media personality Zambali Bulasio Mukasa and musician Ibrahim Mayanja, popularly known as Big Eye. When the party’s Election Management Committee released its list of flag bearers, the ticket went to Zambali. Kaweesa was left out.

He accused the committee of picking a candidate who had never held any leadership position within the party and had no record of community service. He went on to run as an independent, telling supporters at the time that he drew inspiration from NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, who had done the same in the Kyadondo East by-election before going on to win.

Zambali won the Nansana Municipality seat. NRM’s Idi Matovu finished second. Kaweesa says he is now saddled with debts of over Shs600 million from the campaign, with creditors pursuing his properties and forcing him to live in hiding.

He told those gathered at the NRM function that the frustrations he endured within NUP, and the financial fallout that followed his defeat, have pushed him towards the ruling party.

“The challenges I faced in NUP forced me to seek a new political home,” he said. “At the right time, I will officially announce my move to NRM.”

RDC Lwanga expressed sympathy and promised to bring Kaweesa’s concerns to the attention of the country’s top leadership. “Do not lose hope,” Lwanga said. “We shall guide you and ensure your issues are addressed.”