By Angel Lubowa
KAMPALA
The Makindye East legislator Derrick Nyeko’s declaration that he will not seek re-election in the 2026 general elections has surprised none but a few.
The legislator said that he is ending his parliamentary career after just one term.
Nyeko, who won the seat in 2021 on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, said he reached the decision after “deep reflection.”
The announcement comes at a time when tension is high with in NUP given the rate at which some visibly good lads are being denied tickets .
The first batch of casualties was witnessed after NUP released local government and mayoral elective post . Many such losers are protesting the decision or looking around for any political party that can accommodate them.
Nyeko although clean during his only term of office, some voters lately complained that he was not very much on ground and at one time chased him.away with sticks.
It’s therefore not surprising to some that he has turned down standing again.
Moreover with NUP about to release it’s parliamentary ticket choices, one wonders if Hon Nyeko was going to be dropped and he chose to just come out smart.
However in a statement posted on his social media accounts, he thanked his supporters for their trust, saying he had served “with honour, respect, and a deep commitment never to betray the trust” of their vote.
He admitted the announcement may disappoint his supporters, many of whom expected him to retain the Makindye East seat.
“This choice does not diminish the journey we have walked together, nor the victories we have achieved,” Nyeko said, urging his constituents to uphold “unity, resilience, and service.”
The legislator stressed that he was leaving politics with his record intact. “I remain the man of no corruption, no problems,” he wrote.
Nyeko’s withdrawal comes amid growing tension in NUP over the allocation of parliamentary tickets ahead of the 2026 elections. Many aspirants are still waiting for the party’s elections management committee to release the list of successfully vetted candidates.
Makindye East is known for having Mps who mostly serve one term from late Hon Ssebaana Kizito, Hon Benedict Mutyaba, Hon Ibrahim Kasozi and now Hon Nyeko only Hon Mike Mabikke, beat the odd.
