Kampala Woman Member of Parliament, Shamim Malende, is currently fighting for her life in a hospital in Nairobi after being airlifted there on April 10, 2025. But as she remains in critical condition, many are surprised and saddened by the silence from her own political party, the National Unity Platform (NUP).
No top NUP leaders have visited her or spoken publicly to show support. This silence has raised concerns about how the party treats its members, especially during difficult times.
Sources close to the situation say some NUP leaders are unhappy with Malende’s performance as an MP. They claim she hasn’t been active in Parliament, rarely speaks in sessions, and doesn’t take part in committee work.
Though it’s widely known that she has been sick for much of her term since being elected in 2021, some party members believe she hasn’t done enough for the party on the ground or helped financially.
Once praised for defending NUP supporters and speaking up for the opposition, Malende’s poor health has limited her public and political activities. Some within NUP now see her not as a strong party figure, but as a weak link.
According to one insider, the party has already made up its mind not to support her for the 2026 elections.
“They want someone who is active, visible, and can support the campaign financially. Sadly, Malende no longer fits that role,” the source said.
Behind the scenes, the party is quietly preparing to replace her. Two possible candidates have been identified: Euginia Nassolo, a wealthy businesswoman from Rubaga South, and Zahara Luyulika, the current Speaker of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
Both women are seen as strong options, and sources say the final choice may depend on who has more money to support their campaign.
Meanwhile, Malende is not giving up. Reports suggest she is working with lawyers to challenge any move by the party to block her from standing again.
Her team may take the issue to court, arguing that she has the right to seek reelection and should not be pushed aside while she is still serving her term.
The situation has caused a lot of public debate. Many Ugandans are questioning how a party that once stood for justice and unity could turn its back on one of its own leaders during such a difficult time.
“She fought for the party and stood up for its members. Now that she needs help, where is the support?” asked one concerned NUP supporter in a viral social media post.
With elections drawing near, NUP’s handling of this issue could affect how people view the party.
To some, it’s no longer just about one woman’s illness—it’s about loyalty, compassion, and how political decisions are made.
Whether Shamim Malende recovers and runs again or is quietly removed from the race, the silence from her party in this moment is loud and the public is paying attention.
