Bugiri Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, is facing mounting political pressure after National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, publicly called for his removal in the upcoming 2026 general elections.
While addressing a crowd during his Political rally in Bugiri over the weekend, Bobi Wine criticized Asuman Basalirwa for allegedly turning his back on ordinary Ugandans and aligning himself with those in power.
He accused the legislator and his former associate of “dining with the oppressors” and urged voters to support NUP’s candidate, Macelino Egesa Mangeni, who he described as the true voice for the people of Bugiri.
According to our sources, Basalirwa’s support base appears to be weakening not only in his constituency but also within his own party, JEEMA. Insiders claim he has resisted calls to relinquish party leadership and accuse him of being too closely aligned with the government, even labeling him a possible informant for State House.
Basalirwa, a trained teacher by profession and lawyer, is reportedly facing financial difficulties. Some sources speculate that personal responsibilities, including supporting two wives, may have influenced his political choices and apparent cooperation with the ruling government.
With NUP intensifying its efforts to win Bugiri in 2026, the spotlight is now firmly on Basalirwa as he prepares to defend his seat in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested race.
