Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-28 16:03:43
The president of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, Mr Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine, has taken a firm stand by suspending Nyendo-Mukungwe MP, Mr Mathias Mpuuga from his position as the deputy party president for the central region. This decision was communicated through a letter dated March 27, where Mr Kyagulanyi cited that Mr Mpuuga had corruptly received a service award of Shs500 million during his term as the Leader of Opposition (LoP). This act was found to be in violation of Section 9(1) of the Leadership Code Act (2002), as well as Article 5.3 (b) and (f) of the party constitution and principles.
The letter from Mr Kyagulanyi outlined that the suspension was made in accordance with the party constitution, specifically citing Articles 6.3 (h) and 7.1 (e), which led to Mr Mpuuga’s immediate removal from his position as the Deputy President of the National Unity Platform for the Central Region. The matter has been referred to the National Executive Committee for further processing.
The party leadership confirmed the suspension, stating that Mr Mpuuga was engaged in actions of corruption and abuse of office, for which he failed to provide a satisfactory explanation. Despite the growing rift between him and the party principal, Mr Mpuuga had recently addressed a press conference where he expressed his refusal to resign from the Parliamentary Commission, as advised by the party.
Mr Mpuuga emphasized his commitment to the NUP, a party he helped found, and expressed his dedication to upholding its values. This stance was taken amidst tensions within the party, as Mr Mpuuga faced pressure to step down from his role. The Speaker of Parliament, Ms Anita Among, also weighed in on the matter by informing the NUP Secretary General that the party did not have the authority to remove Mr Mpuuga from the Parliamentary Commission.
According to the Speaker, parties can nominate candidates for election to the office of the commissioner of parliament but cannot recall already elected commissioners. Therefore, the request made by NUP to replace Mr Mpuuga with another legislator was declined by the Speaker. This decision highlighted the legal limitations surrounding the removal of elected officials from such positions.
The suspension of Mr Mpuuga and the subsequent events have brought to light the internal challenges and power struggles within the NUP. The party is facing a critical juncture as it navigates its leadership and governance structures, while also grappling with issues of accountability and integrity among its members. The actions taken by Mr Kyagulanyi reflect a commitment to upholding the values and principles of the party, even in the face of internal conflict. The outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications for the future direction of the NUP and its position within the political landscape of Uganda.
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