In a surprising turn of events, Barbie Kyagulanyi, the wife of musician and politician Bobi Wine, has assumed control of the National Unity Platform Party (NUP) affairs and has set the criteria for the selection of MP candidates for the upcoming 2026 general elections. Through the process, she has implemented certain measures, such as ring zoning, to allocate specific constituencies to particular candidates.
Sources close to the party have revealed that Barbie has been actively involved in NUP affairs behind the scenes for quite some time, but her recent influence has taken a bolder step, causing a significant shift in the party’s dynamics.
According to insiders, Barbie has cautioned party members, particularly Nyanzi, her brother-in-law, against ring zoning some party positions. She has warned him and his team that anyone seeking to run on the NUP party ticket must first seek her approval.
Criticism has arisen among some party members due to Barbie’s increased involvement in decision-making. Sources claim that she has openly warned certain individuals to stay away from specific areas, like Kawempe North constituency, as she intends to unveil a suitable candidate for that seat in due course.
One party member voiced their concerns, stating, “The woman has grown wings; she warned Latif Ssebaggala to keep off Kawempe North, claiming she has the right person for that seat. She also told Nyanzi not to sell some party tickets for certain constituencies, especially the one for the Wakiso woman member, as she is interested in that seat.”
Insiders further indicated that Barbie is specifically targeting some constituencies, namely those perceived as supporters of former LOP, Mathias Mpuuga, for different candidates. Constituencies like Entebbe Municipality of Michael Kakembo, Joyce Bagala’s Mityana district, and Kassanda of Flavia Kalule have been earmarked. Barbie believes that these members have not effectively served her husband and the NUP party.
“She has instructed her brother-in-law, Nyanzi, to find suitable candidates for those seats and ensure that foot soldiers make it impossible for the mentioned individuals to gain political ground and win votes in 2026,” the sources added.
Although Mathias Mpuuga previously claimed that NUP affairs were under the control of the family, many people initially dismissed it as propaganda. However, with the recent revelations of Barbie’s leadership role, Mpuuga’s claims appear to carry weight.
Political analysts are closely observing the developments within the NUP, acknowledging that Barbie’s newfound leadership position could signal a new era for the party. With Bobi Wine spending most of his time abroad, focusing on financial endeavors, all eyes will be on Barbie Kyagulanyi and the future direction of the NUP under her guidance as the party prepares for the 2026 elections.
