The National Unity Platform (NUP) accuses the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) of bribing candidates to withdraw from the 2026 General Election. NUP claims that NRM approached almost all of its nominated candidates, offering them money and government positions to convince them to step down.

David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, explained that the party initially planned to field 425 candidates. However, only 303 candidates were nominated. Some couldn’t raise the Shs 3 million nomination fee, while others allegedly withdrew due to pressure from security and administrative actions.

NRM Allegedly Offered Large Sums to Candidates

Rubongoya stated that NUP candidates were offered up to Shs 50 million, plus government positions funded by taxpayer money. He also accused NRM of stealing NUP’s campaign materials, including T-shirts, and using them to create a false impression of growing support for NRM.

Several NUP candidates spoke out. For instance, Jane Abo, NUP’s candidate for Pallisa District, rejected Shs 50 million and a promised Resident District Commissioner position. Similarly, Patience Atuhaire, a candidate from Kamwenge, turned down Shs 300 million. Ronald Okoth, from West Budama Central, rejected Shs 100 million and offers of an RDC or magistrate position.

NRM Denies Bribery and Coercion

NRM denied all accusations. Party spokesperson Emmanuel Dombo stated that the ruling party does not bribe opposition candidates. He emphasized that NRM’s goal is to lawfully persuade opposition supporters to join their cause. Dombo dismissed the claims of coercion, arguing that no candidate was forced to withdraw.