Former Katabi Mayor Ronald Kalema Defects from NUP to Patriotic League of Uganda

Former Katabi Town Council Mayor Ronald Kalema Basamulakere has officially left the National Unity Platform (NUP) and joined the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), marking another significant political shift in his career.

Kalema, who served as Katabi Town Council mayor for two consecutive terms, lost his seat to National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Byenkya Kajura in the most recent elections. Following his defeat, he has now aligned himself with the Patriotic League of Uganda, a political pressure group that continues to attract supporters from different political backgrounds.

The former mayor formally defected to PLU on June 11, 2026. He was welcomed at the organization’s offices in Kampala by PLU Director of Mobilization Michael Mawanda.

Kalema’s political journey has seen him move across several political formations. He was previously a member of the Democratic Party (DP) before joining the National Unity Platform (NUP). His latest move to the Patriotic League of Uganda adds another chapter to his political career.

Speaking after joining PLU, Kalema said his decision was influenced by his desire to find a political environment that promotes unity and peace. He claimed that during his time in NUP, he faced internal disagreements and political isolation from some party members.

According to Kalema, the tensions within the party contributed to him being denied the party flag, forcing him to contest as an independent candidate.

The former mayor also expressed confidence in PLU’s growing political influence, saying he wanted to associate with a movement that is gaining support across the country. He described the Patriotic League of Uganda as the right platform for his future political ambitions and stated that he has no regrets about joining the organization.

Kalema’s defection comes as Uganda’s political landscape continues to experience realignments ahead of the country’s next electoral cycle, with political parties and movements intensifying mobilization efforts across various regions.