As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, the political landscape is witnessing a rise in newly formed parties aiming to offer fresh alternatives to traditional leadership. Among them is the recently launched Common Man’s Party (CMP), officially unveiled in Kampala under the leadership of former Kawempe South MP Mubarak Munyagwa.
CMP presents itself as a people-centered movement focused on championing the rights and dignity of everyday Ugandans. Its silver platter symbol, according to party leaders, reflects values of fairness, equality, and shared access to national resources. Munyagwa emphasized that the name and branding were chosen to speak directly to the often-ignored majority.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Group and Receive Daily News
In his speech, Munyagwa likened his political journey to that of Moses from the Bible, stating that he had spent over 25 years in activism, fighting for justice and equity. “I have dedicated more than half of my life to liberating the common man,” he said, referencing his early days in the Red-Top Brigade. He criticized the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), arguing that its 40-year rule has lost relevance and now oppresses the very people it once claimed to serve.
The party emerged from the rebranded Uganda Economic Party, a change CMP’s legal officer, Prof Dennis Namala, said was necessary to broaden the movement’s appeal. “The old name was too narrow — it only spoke to economists. We needed a party identity that reflects all Ugandans,” he explained, adding that the silver platter logo also symbolizes inclusiveness and equal opportunity.
CMP has already attracted notable political figures. Moses Bigirwa, now the party’s Secretary General, cited disillusionment with past opposition leadership as his reason for joining CMP. “I’ve served under many who failed to deliver. I believe Field Marshal Munyagwa is the leader we need to advance the cause of the common person,” he stated.
To strengthen its foundation, CMP has set up a provisional leadership structure and is preparing to roll out grassroots mobilization across the country.
Interim Leadership of the Common Man’s Party (CMP)
- Mubarak Munyagwa – President
- Muhammad Mulwani – Vice President, Eastern Region
- Habib Ssemakula – Vice President, Buganda Region
- John Tumwine – Vice President, Western Region
- James Watentena – National Chairperson
- Moses Bigirwa – Secretary General
- Proscovia Ropani – Deputy Secretary General
- Muhammud Mutazindwa – Deputy Chairperson, Electoral Commission
- Sultan Nkonge – Deputy Organizing Secretary
- Phillip Magambo – Secretary for Tourism and Economic Growth
- Edison Mukembo – Secretary for Disabled Affairs
- Martha Watenkena – Secretary for Education
- Haruna Kawenda – Secretary for Trade
- Lubowa Amin Umar – Deputy Secretary for Finance
- Musa Lukwago – National Treasurer
- John Ngarula – Deputy Publicity Secretary
- Innocent Kibuuma – Secretary for Works
- Asadra Seninde – Secretary for Mobilization
- Haruna Musanje – National Youth Secretary
- Nasif Lubwama – Secretary General for Research
CMP’s emergence comes amid a wave of political reconfiguration, as several other new parties also prepare for the 2026 elections. These include the Democratic Front (DF) led by Mathias Mpuuga, National Peasants’ Party headed by Stecia Mayanja, NEED under Joseph Kabuleta, and the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) with Erias Lukwago as interim president.
This growing political momentum reflects a national appetite for change, as more Ugandans seek alternatives that promise inclusion, equity, and genuine representation.
Also Read: Amama Mbabazi’s Daughter Wanted Over Unpaid Shs 450m Loan
