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NUP Flagbearer for Igara East Withdraws from 2026 Parliamentary Race
Bushenyi, Uganda – The National Unity Platform (NUP) has suffered a setback in its preparations for the 2026 General Elections after its flagbearer for Igara East County, Counsel Tumukunde Joshua, formally withdrew from the parliamentary race.
In a letter dated Thursday, October 16, 2025, addressed to NUP President Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, Tumukunde cited financial constraints as the main reason for his decision to step down.
“I was duly given the party flag to represent and stand as the National Unity Platform flag bearer for Igara East County in Bushenyi District. However, I regret to inform you that I am unable to proceed with this candidature due to financial constraints,” Tumukunde wrote.
Tumukunde previously contested in the 2021 elections under the same party and had once again secured the NUP endorsement for the 2026 race. He expressed gratitude to the party leadership for the continued trust, stating: “Unfortunately for the 2026 race, I have realized that I am unable to continue to the end.”
Despite bowing out of the electoral contest, Tumukunde reaffirmed his commitment to the NUP, pledging to remain an active and loyal party cadre. He vowed to continue offering free legal services to political prisoners across the country.
His withdrawal now leaves the NUP with the task of identifying a new candidate for the Igara East seat as the 2026 elections draw closer.
