The National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer for Igara East Constituency, Counsel Joshua Tumukunde, has withdrawn from the 2026 parliamentary race just days before the Electoral Commission nomination exercise.
Tumukunde, who also serves as NUP’s Head of Legal Affairs for Western Region and Subregional Coordinator for Greater Bushenyi, confirmed his withdrawal in a letter dated 16th October 2025 addressed to Party President Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, through the Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, and Western Region Vice President Jackline Tukamushaba.
A resident of Rwenyena I, Kitagata Parish, Kyeizooba Sub-county, Tumukunde had earlier been officially endorsed as the party’s flag bearer for Igara East Constituency in Bushenyi District. However, he says he has been compelled to step down due to financial limitations.
“Unfortunately, for the 2026 race, I have realized that I am unable to continue to the end,” he stated.
Despite his withdrawal, Tumukunde emphasized his unwavering loyalty to the party and its cause.
“As the Subregional Coordinator for Greater Bushenyi, which comprises Ntungamo, Buhweju, Sheema, Rubirizi, Mitooma, and Bushenyi, i will continue mobilizing support for NUP at all levels,” he reaffirmed.
He also pledged to continue defending human rights and offering free legal services to political prisoners, a role he says he has consistently fulfilled over the years.
Tumukunde commended the party leadership for entrusting him with the flag in both the 2021 and 2026 election cycles, noting that his decision was purely based on financial constraints rather than loss of passion or commitment.
