Silent Protest? MP Derrick Nyeko Snubs NUP in Retirement Post After Losing Party Flag
Kampala | Makindye East — In a move that has ignited political speculation and stirred conversation across opposition circles, Makindye East Member of Parliament Derrick Nyeko has officially announced his retirement from elective politics — but notably omitted any reference to the National Unity Platform (NUP), the very party that sent him to Parliament in 2021.
The announcement, delivered via a brief yet reflective Facebook post, comes just days before NUP is expected to unveil its official flag bearers for the 2026 parliamentary elections.
Nyeko, a first-term MP and one of the youngest legislators in the outgoing Parliament, had previously picked nomination forms from the party’s secretariat, signaling his intention to run for a second term. However, sources within the Kavule-based party confirm that the NUP flag for Makindye East has instead been handed to a female candidate — a decision that appears to have prompted Nyeko’s abrupt withdrawal.
“It is with a heart full of joy that I have served you with honour, respect, and a deep commitment never to betray the trust of your vote,” Nyeko wrote.
“After deep reflection, I have made the difficult decision not to offer myself for election in the coming polls. This choice does not diminish the journey we have walked together, nor the victories we have achieved.”
While Nyeko’s message struck a tone of gratitude and introspection, his failure to mention NUP or its leadership — the party that championed his rise in 2021 — has not gone unnoticed. Political observers, party supporters, and social media users have interpreted the silence as a quiet protest over internal party dynamics, particularly the handling of flag bearer selection and primary vetting.
Who Is Derrick Nyeko?
Nyeko burst onto the national stage in 2020, winning the Makindye East seat on the NUP ticket in a hotly contested race. A youth activist-turned-politician, he was widely seen as part of the “new wave” of opposition voices championing reform, social justice, and youth inclusion.
In Parliament, Nyeko was known for his vocal contributions on urban development, local government, and community welfare. His roots in grassroots mobilization and youth leadership helped him maintain a strong connection with constituents throughout his term.
Despite his relatively short tenure, Nyeko carved out a reputation as one of the more engaged and articulate voices in the opposition benches.
Public Reaction: Praise, Disappointment, and Speculation
Reactions to Nyeko’s announcement were swift and divided.
“Such a decision is never from a weak point of view but rather a strong and mature mind,” said one Facebook user, Drake Mutibwa.
Others, however, saw the retirement as a symptom of deeper issues within the NUP.
“Finally the K.Y party has thrown you out,” remarked James Ayomire Bomera, alluding to internal factionalism.
Another follower, Don Gift Patience, speculated that Nyeko may have anticipated the party’s decision: “I think he knew that they weren’t ready to give him a membership card.”
What Next for NUP and Makindye East?
Nyeko’s quiet exit has raised broader questions about the internal management of NUP — particularly as the party gears up for a major electoral test in 2026. The decision to sideline a sitting MP without clear public explanation is likely to prompt scrutiny, both within and outside the party.
As for Makindye East, the race is now wide open — and with Nyeko out of the picture, all eyes will be on who the party puts forward and how voters respond to the changing political landscape.
Whether his departure signals disillusionment with party politics or a strategic retreat, Derrick Nyeko leaves behind a complex legacy — one that underscores the evolving dynamics within Uganda’s opposition politics.
