By Nanteza Ruth Walusimbi
JINJA
Jinja North Member of Parliament, David Isabirye Aga on Monday 6th October 2025 officially announced his withdrawal from the 2026 parliamentary race after losing the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket to comedian-turned-politician, Hussein Muyonjo alias Swengere.
Isabirye, who recently defected from Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to join NUP, said he fully respects the party’s vetting outcome and will not contest under any other political banner.
This decision comes after reports circulated that he was coming to stand as an independent candidate after he failed the secure NUP flag to stand as Jinja North Member of Parliament.
“I believe in the decision of the National Unity Platform Party’s vetting committee and I will support the one given the ticket, Hussein Muyonjo.”Said Aga.
His remarks come amid speculation that he might seek nomination under the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), a claim he firmly denied.
Aga’s endorsement of Muyonjo is likely to influence the race in Jinja North, where he has maintained significant grassroots support since 2021. His tenure survived a court challenge when the High Court upheld his election following the withdrawal of a petition filed by NRM’s Muhammad Bidondole Bismarck.
His move has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his political maturity and others questioning NUP’s handling of high-profile defections.
Political analysts note that Agah’s loyalty to the vetting process could set a precedent for other NUP aspirants, especially those who have recently crossed from rival parties.
The endorsement is a major boost for Muyonjo, who has built a large following before formally joining politics. His popularity among the youth and urban voters in Jinja North positions him as a strong contender in the 2026 elections.
As Uganda edges closer to the 2026 general elections, the evolving political landscape in Jinja North will be one to watch.
