By KT Reporter
Makindye East MP Derrick Nyeko has made the unexpected decision to withdraw from the race as anticipation builds among National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters and the wider opposition for the party’s highly anticipated announcement of parliamentary flag bearers.
In a statement posted on his verified X account, Nyeko expressed gratitude to his constituents for their trust and support, saying he had served “with honour, respect, and a deep commitment never to betray the trust of their vote.”
But he added that after deep reflection, he has chosen not to contest in the upcoming elections. “This was not an easy decision, but it does not diminish the incredible journey we’ve shared or the victories we’ve achieved together,” Nyeko wrote.
He acknowledged that the announcement would shock his supporters, many of whom expected him to defend the seat, but maintained that his choice followed careful consideration. Reaffirming his commitment to integrity, Nyeko added: “I remain a man of no corruption, no compromise.”
Speaking to our reporter in a telephone interview, Nyeko confirmed authoring the post, saying simply: “That is my choice.”
The decision was unexpected, especially since sources had indicated that he was still actively campaigning as recently as yesterday. But it also adds fresh intrigue to the NUP flag bearer race, raising questions about internal party dynamics and the fate of other aspirants ahead of the much-anticipated “white smoke.”
A Kampala Capital City Authority Councillor close to the legislator suggested two possible reasons behind the sudden move. First, all local government aspirants allied to Nyeko were denied NUP flags, raising fears that he might also lose the party ticket.
There are reports that insiders may have hinted to him that he was unlikely to secure the card, prompting him to bow out early. “This could have been an indication that he, too, would not be given a flag. There is also a possibility that someone within hinted to him that he was not to get the card, so he decided to bow out,” the source noted.
Nyeko’s political journey has been marked by shifting allegiances. Before joining NUP, he served as an NRM Youth Councillor. However, in recent months, he faced criticism from some constituents and social media commentators who accused him of underperforming in Parliament.
Party insiders have also suggested that his limited presence at the NUP headquarters may have weakened his influence within the party.
With Nyeko stepping aside, attention now turns to those eyeing the NUP ticket for Makindye East. Among them is former NBS TV presenter Robert Ssekidde, popularly known as Tuff B, who recently resigned from his media career to join politics, and city lawyer James Kayondo.
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