The National Unity Platform’s headquarters in Makerere Kavule turned into a political beehive this week as thousands of aspiring candidates descended on the party offices to submit their nomination forms. The scene was one of both excitement and tension, with over 40,000 individuals reportedly picking up forms nationwide a clear sign of the opposition party’s growing appeal ahead of the 2026 general elections.

By Tuesday morning, the reception tent at the NUP offices was packed with hopefuls from across Uganda, all eager to beat the June 23 deadline. Party officials worked tirelessly to verify each submission, ensuring no forgeries slipped through and that all candidates met the necessary requirements. “We’re receiving hundreds of forms daily, and each one undergoes strict scrutiny,” said Rovans Lwanyaga, a commissioner with the NUP Electoral Commission.

The day also saw a notable influx of defectors from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), many of whom publicly denounced their former party as they pledged allegiance to NUP. Among them was Nakaseke South MP Luttamaguzi Ssemakula, who confidently submitted his nomination papers under the opposition banner. “I joined NUP because this is where real change will come from. It’s not just about politics it’s about values,” he told reporters.

Not everyone left satisfied, however. Sseguya Godfrey, another Nakaseke South hopeful, saw his nomination rejected due to missing documents. He was advised to return once his paperwork was complete a reminder of the high stakes for those vying for a spot on the ballot.

More dramatic moments unfolded as prominent NRM members crossed the aisle. Asinde Brenda Hope, former Woman MP for Iganga District, didn’t mince words as she explained her defection. “I left NRM because of the scandals, the indiscipline, and the impunity. I need to align with a party that stands for the change we want,” she declared. Her sentiments were echoed by Hajji Lubyayi Iddi Kisiki, a three-time parliamentary aspirant from Bukomansimbi, who claimed many more NRM members were preparing to jump ship. “There’s too much lawlessness in the NRM. This is just the beginning,” he said.

The atmosphere wasn’t entirely celebratory, though. Tensions simmered as NUP figures addressed the recent departure of former party stalwart Mathias Mpuuga. Masaka City Mayor Florence Namayanja and Lubowa Ssebina Gyaviira, both key NUP members, dismissed concerns about Mpuuga’s influence in Nyendo Mukungwe. “The people know who truly represents their values,” Lubowa asserted, positioning himself as Mpuuga’s potential successor.

With the nomination window closing soon, party officials are bracing for even more submissions. Harriet Chemutai, chairperson of the NUP Electoral Commission, assured the public that the process would remain transparent despite the overwhelming numbers. “By June 23, all forms will have been verified, and we’ll begin harmonizing submissions from all districts,” she said.

The massive turnout at NUP’s offices sends a clear message: Uganda’s political landscape is shifting. Whether this surge of interest translates into electoral success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain the race to 2026 is already heating up.