Saudah Madaada
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I She joined the National Unity Platform (NUP)as an upstart, politically speaking. Through the years, she rose to become the party’s chief mobiliser, credited with bringing hundreds if not thousands, into NUP.
On Wednesday this week, Saudah Madaada received the chilling news that the party wont stand with her in her quest to claim the Kampala Central Lord Councillorship. They handed the party flag to one Eve Kyazike. Maddada couldn’t hear of it, and has decided to abandon the party and go independent.
Confident as ever, Madaada appeared at the Electoral Commission offices in Ntinda on Wednesday, where she was officially nominated.
Speaking after her nomination, Madaada explained that pressure from her supporters pushed her to take the independent route.
“My people collected signatures on my behalf and insisted that I must stand. They believe I am the right person to represent their voices. Even as I contest independently, I remain loyal to our party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. I urge everyone to vote for him and for our Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya,” she said.
Her move has stirred mixed reactions within NUP. While some members accuse her of undermining party structures, others argue that her popularity on the ground could still play in her favor. Party leaders had earlier warned members against running as independents after failing to secure official endorsement.
Political observers note that Madaada’s choice highlights deeper frustrations within NUP ranks. More dissatisfied aspirants are expected to follow her path, citing what they call unfair treatment during the party vetting process.
As campaigns heat up, Madaada’s candidacy will test her personal influence against the party’s official machinery in Kampala Central.
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