Kampala, Uganda –Winifred Nakandi has officially announced her decision to contest for the Nakawa East Member of Parliament seat as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections. Her announcement follows her withdrawal from the National Unity Platform (NUP) race for the Kampala District Woman MP position, citing irregularities in the party’s card allocation and vetting process.
Nakandi, who previously sought the NUP ticket, made her declaration on Monday, pledging to represent the voices of ordinary citizens. She said her campaign would focus on unity and inclusive socio-economic development for the people of Nakawa East. “I will be a voice for the common person,” she stated, promising to champion the issues that directly affect daily life, from economic hardship to community empowerment.
Her independent run comes after she officially exited the NUP primaries on September 11, where she was contesting against Shamim Malende, Zahara Luyirika, and Agnes Namagembe for the Kampala Woman MP slot. Nakandi accused the party of conducting an unfair vetting process, though NUP leaders have yet to publicly comment on the matter.
Nakandi’s entry into the Nakawa East race adds new energy to an already competitive lineup that includes NUP’s Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro and NRM’s Fredrick Ruhindi. The Electoral Commission is expected to begin nominations later this month, setting the stage for a closely watched contest in one of Kampala’s most politically active constituencies.
Observers say Nakandi’s decision to go independent reflects a growing trend among opposition figures who feel sidelined by internal party disputes. Despite her differences with NUP’s internal process, she has maintained respect for the party leadership and expressed openness to continued collaboration where possible.
Nakawa East, a dynamic constituency known for its youthful population and rapid urban growth, is expected to draw strong competition as key issues such as unemployment, infrastructure, and local development dominate campaign debates. Nakandi’s platform seeks to connect with voters who are frustrated by partisan politics and eager for practical solutions.
Her announcement has sparked wide discussion both online and within Kampala’s political circles. Supporters have commended her for standing firm in her principles, while critics have questioned the strength of independent candidates in Uganda’s party-driven political landscape. As campaigning gains momentum, all eyes will be on Nakawa East to see how Nakandi’s independent message resonates with voters.
