Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-26 16:38:18
The National Unity Platform (NUP) party has expressed its displeasure at Mr. Mathias Mpuuga’s refusal to resign as the Commissioner of Parliament, despite the party’s request for him to step down. The party alleges that Mr. Mpuuga’s decision is being influenced by the Speaker of Parliament, Ms. Anita Among.
According to Mr. Waiswa Mufumbiro, the NUP deputy spokesperson, Mr. Mpuuga is considered a corrupt official who compromised the party’s position by collaborating with the ‘dictator’, thus making him unfit to represent the party on the Commission. He criticized Mr. Mpuuga for aligning himself with Ms. Among and accused him of being swayed by a bribe of Shs500 million from the State.
“The hand that kept Mr. Ojara Mapenduuzi in Parliament when we had sacked him is the same hand that is supporting Mr. Mpuuga. He is already compromised by this act of corruption, and if he is truly a member of the party, he should adhere to the party’s directives. Otherwise, the party will resort to legal procedures,” Mr. Mufumbiro stated.
In response, Mr. Mpuuga asserted his loyalty to NUP, highlighting his role as a founding member and deputy president for Buganda. He denied any wrongdoing and emphasized his commitment to the party and opposition movement, expressing his intention to remain with NUP despite the controversy surrounding his position.
Regarding the issue of the Shs500 million ‘service award’, Mr. Mufumbiro emphasized the party’s stance that Mr. Mpuuga should return the money, apologize to the public, and step down from his role as Commissioner. He also criticized the NUP leadership for their lack of response to significant national issues, such as the appointment of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as Chief of Defence Forces and the retention of Electoral Commissioners accused of election malpractice.
While Ms. Among cited legal limitations on the party’s involvement in electing Commissioners, Mr. Mufumbiro reiterated the party’s stance on Mr. Mpuuga’s situation. He emphasized the potential legal repercussions if the party’s request is not followed, referencing a past constitutional court decision.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Mr. Mpuuga’s position as Commissioner of Parliament underscores the tensions within NUP and the challenges faced by opposition parties in Uganda. The conflicting perspectives on accountability, party loyalty, and legal boundaries highlight the complexities of political dynamics in the country.
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