Joel Besekezi Ssenyonyi, the National Unity Platform (NUP) politician who currently serves as both Member of Parliament for Nakawa West and Leader of the Opposition in Uganda’s Parliament has been officially nominated today to run for a second term as Nakawa West MP. The nomination took place during Kampala’s nomination exercises on October 22, 2025, where dozens of candidates completed paperwork to contest the 2026 parliamentary elections.
Ssenyonyi’s rise from journalist to parliamentarian and opposition leader has been closely watched. Elected as MP for Nakawa West in 2021, he is known for an outspoken style in Parliament and for taking up oversight roles, notably chairing COSASE (Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises) in his earlier term. In December 2023 he was named Leader of the Opposition, a role that positions him as a principal voice for the largest non-government party in the chamber.
During his nomination appearance, Ssenyonyi reaffirmed campaign commitments that resonate with many urban constituents: improving local service delivery, promoting transparency and accountability, and expanding opportunities for youth and small businesses. He framed the re-run as a chance to consolidate the development projects and civic engagement initiatives he began in his first term, while also promising stronger parliamentary oversight.
Challenges and the road ahead
Nomination is only the first step in a competitive and often politically charged race. Kampala’s nomination day saw heavy crowds and a tightly managed security presence as electoral actors across parties completed procedures, a reminder that the campaign period will demand robust grassroots work, coalition-building and clear messaging. For Ssenyonyi, retaining the seat will require translating national visibility into sustained local delivery and effective voter outreach across Nakawa West’s diverse neighborhoods.
what to watch next
Expect the coming weeks to bring policy rallies, constituency engagements and detailed campaign pledges from Ssenyonyi and his opponents. Observers will also watch how his dual role constituency MP and Leader of the Opposition is balanced during the campaign, and whether re-election efforts alter parliamentary dynamics for the opposition bench. For Nakawa West residents, the core question will remain: who can best deliver steady, accountable services while giving the constituency a strong voice in Kampala and at the national level.
