Retired Captain Kalifani Chemutai Defects to NUP, Shakes Political Grounds in Kapchorwa


 In a dramatic political shift that has sent ripples across the Sebei sub-region, Retired Captain Chemutai Kalifani has officially crossed from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to the main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP). The crossover was made public today at NUP headquarters in Makerere Kavule, Kampala, in a ceremony presided over by party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine.


Kalifani, who seeks to contest for Member of Parliament for Kapchorwa Municipality in the 2026–2031 term, was unveiled alongside Caleb from Kween district as NUP parliamentary flag bearers for the upcoming general elections.

Mixed Reactions in Sebei


The news has stirred mixed reactions on social media and local WhatsApp forums. Some, praised Kalifani’s decision, stating: "Am in love with Kalifani's decision to join NUP, not like these NRM yes yes tumbocrats. Home boy u have my support."


Others, however, dismissed the move as political suicide. “Forget Parliament if you are with NUP, Ndugu Kalifani,” wrote one user, suggesting that Sebei remains a “sealed” NRM territory.


Another voice, expressing ethnic concern, remarked: "At least let him join FDC not NUP. NUP is for Buganda.” This sparked a quick rebuttal from a pro-NUP supporter: “Just because the principal is Muganda doesn’t make NUP a Buganda party. Let’s think broadly.”

His decision reflects a broader trend of disillusionment among some NRM supporters, particularly in regions that feel marginalized by national policies.


Whether Kalifani’s leap will translate into electoral success remains to be seen. But today’s defection marks a bold statement—and a sign that the 2026 elections might be unlike any other in Uganda’s recent political history.

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