Summary:

• Mathias Mpuuga, Commissioner of Parliament on the NUP ticket, clarifies his dispute with NUP leadership, denying it’s about money. He urges scrutiny of leaders’ decisions, criticizes NUP’s inaction on key issues, and calls for party reforms. Mpuuga dismisses rumors of presidential ambitions within NUP and pledges transparency in future actions.

The National Unity Platform’s Commissioner of Parliament and former Leader of the Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, has addressed the ongoing discord between him and the party leadership. Contrary to assertions, Mpuuga clarified that the disagreement does not revolve around the 500 million shillings he was reportedly allocated unlawfully during his tenure as Leader of the Opposition.

The NUP accuses Mpuuga of involvement in acts of corruption and misuse of authority, particularly in the irregular allocation of 1.7 billion shillings as “Service Awards,” of which Mpuuga allegedly received 500 million shillings. Despite calls from the NUP for him to return the money, apologize, and resign as Commissioner of Parliament, Mpuuga has not complied.

In a recent statement, Mpuuga emphasized that the issue transcends mere financial matters and urged Ugandans to critically evaluate the decisions made by their leaders. He highlighted the lack of genuine accountability, pointing out that accountability is seldom achieved through social media or press conferences. Mpuuga questioned why the NUP has not challenged President Museveni’s recent military appointments, including the promotion of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and why it did not scrutinize the appointments of Electoral Commission members.

While reaffirming his commitment to the NUP, Mpuuga expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s current state and advocated for internal reforms to enhance its credibility. He assured supporters that he does not intend to defect but hinted at collaborating with like-minded colleagues to reform the party.

Addressing criticism from Ugandans in the diaspora, Mpuuga acknowledged their frustrations and pledged to engage with them transparently. He urged for a shift from social media activism to concrete actions aimed at effecting meaningful change in Uganda’s electoral laws and constitutional frameworks.

Regarding speculations about his presidential ambitions within the NUP, Mpuuga dismissed such claims, stating that any leadership aspirations would be pursued through proper party channels. He emphasized that he holds no personal grievances against NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.

Mpuuga concluded by announcing plans to unveil his next steps in the coming weeks, indicating a willingness to engage with party leadership if given the opportunity.