NUP’s Florence Asio Resurfaces, Denies Kidnap Claims; “I Wasn’t Abducted — I Just Needed Time”

 October 26, 2025   |    159 views

By NgariamFocus News Desk
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Bukedea, Uganda — In a dramatic twist to last week’s political storm, Florence Asio, the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer for the Bukedea Woman MP seat, has dismissed claims by her own party that she was kidnapped on the eve of nominations.

Asio, whose sudden disappearance had triggered outrage and allegations of state-sponsored abduction, resurfaced over the weekend, saying her absence was entirely personal and unrelated to politics.

“I was not kidnapped. I took time off to attend to private matters. I regret the confusion my absence caused,” Asio told reporters on Sunday.

Her clarification comes days after the NUP Secretariat had issued a hard-hitting statement accusing “state agents” of abducting their candidate to frustrate her nomination and pave way for the incumbent, Speaker Anita Among, who was later declared unopposed.

The development has now left Uganda’s leading opposition party grappling with embarrassment and internal questions over the accuracy of its earlier claims.

Political observers say the incident exposes the growing communication gap within opposition ranks ahead of the 2026 elections.

“This episode underscores the dangers of political sensationalism in the age of quick reactions,” remarked political analyst William Auruku. “The public deserves truth, not theatre.”

Meanwhile, Asio’s political future remains uncertain after failing to present herself for nomination, effectively leaving Speaker Anita Among uncontested for the Bukedea Woman MP seat.

Asio, however, insists she remains committed to “the struggle for justice and good governance,” hinting she may still play a role in NUP’s broader campaign.