In a bid to boost her visibility within the National Unity Platform (NUP), Kampala Woman Member of Parliament Shamim Malende has responded to internal party pressure by contributing Shs 10 million towards NUP’s campaign fundraising efforts.
Earlier, Malende sought an audience with NUP party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine. The two held closed-door talks, the details of which remain undisclosed. However, there is speculation that the meeting was an attempt to harmonize internal dynamics within the party ahead of the 2026 elections.
“This contribution is a token of my commitment to the cause and a call to all supporters to invest in the future of our nation,” Malende said.
“Kampala deserves leaders who are dedicated, capable, and truly representative of the people’s voice.”
She further explained that her Shs 10 million donation symbolizes unity and purpose: Shs 9 million represents the nine constituencies in Kampala, while the remaining Shs 1 million is dedicated to all women in the district.
The contribution is part of a broader campaign aiming to raise Shs 9 billion to support the party’s activities ahead of the next general elections.
Malende is facing stiff competition as she seeks to reclaim her seat. Her recent discharge from Aga Khan Hospital in Kenya, where she underwent three months of specialized medical treatment, closed a critical chapter in her health battle.
However, the political road ahead remains challenging. Whether her ordeal garners public sympathy or becomes a political liability will depend on her ability to reshape her narrative, reconnect with grassroots supporters, and navigate the often volatile intersection of power and persecution in Ugandan politics.
One of Malende’s most prominent challengers is Zahara Luyirika, Speaker of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Council, who also returned her nomination forms and contributed Shs 10 million toward the NUP campaign fund.
“We are in a democratic country, and NUP is a democratic party. I’m not standing against my sister Shamim Malende—I saw a vacuum, and I’m stepping up to fill it,” Luyirika stated.
Another contender is popular musician Stecia Mayanja, who was recently elected president of the National Peasants Party (NPP). She has also declared her intention to run for the Kampala Woman MP seat in the 2026 general elections.
