NUP Accuses Regime of Bribing Parliamentary Candidates, Condemns “Electoral Corruption

Kampala, Uganda — Officials of an opposition political party on Tuesday addressed a press briefing at Makerere Kavule, raising alarm over what they described as a systematic scheme by regime agents to buy off duly nominated opposition candidates, particularly at parliamentary level in Western Uganda.

According to the party leadership, at least 90 percent of their nominated candidates have been approached by individuals linked to the ruling establishment and offered money, government jobs, and other inducements in exchange for abandoning their political ambitions or defecting to the ruling side. Some candidates, officials revealed, were asked to submit their curriculum vitae with promises of future appointments, including positions such as Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and other public offices.

Party officials sharply criticized the government for what they termed misplaced national priorities, arguing that while teachers and other public servants continue to strike over long-standing demands for salary enhancements, state resources are allegedly being diverted to undermine opposition politics.

“This is absolute bribery and a clear electoral offence,” party officials said, condemning the practice in the “strongest terms possible” and calling upon Ugandans of good conscience to reject and denounce such conduct.

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The party further disclosed that some candidates have already been paraded publicly by the regime to denounce their earlier political plans and announce defections. However, leaders emphasized that many candidates have refused to be bought off, despite facing alleged threats and intimidation from regime-linked operatives.

“We are grateful to our comrades who have stood firm, endured intimidation, and chosen to defend the future of our country by sticking to the truth,” officials said.

Despite acknowledged financial constraints, the party reaffirmed its commitment to its candidates, stating that it supported them through the nomination process and will continue to work closely with all candidates duly nominated under its flag.

The revelations come amid growing concerns from civil society and opposition groups over the integrity of Uganda’s electoral processes ahead of the 2026 general elections.