Mathias Mpuuga has challenged National Unity Platform (NUP) principal Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, asserting that Kyagulanyi does not have the authority to suspend him as NUP deputy president for Buganda region.
Mpuuga, the Nyendo-Mukunger MP and former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, was suspended last week from his role as NUP deputy president. However, during an appearance on NBS Morning Breeze on Thursday, Mpuuga questioned the party’s decision and claimed that suspending a vice president was outside of Kyagulanyi’s powers.
“I am well acquainted with the party’s constitution and the president’s powers. Suspending a vice president is not within his jurisdiction,” he stated.
Mpuuga said he dismissed the suspension due to its lack of legal foundation under the party’s constitution. He added that a political party should serve as a national asset and not be exploited to fulfill personal ambitions.
The dispute between Mpuuga and Kyagulanyi stems from allegations of corruption during Mpuuga’s tenure as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. Kyagulanyi referenced an incident from May 6, 2022, involving an allocation of 1.7 billion Ugandan Shillings under the guise of “Service Awards,” with Mpuuga allegedly receiving 500 million Shillings.
Mpuuga, who was replaced by Mityana Municipality lawmaker Francis Zaake as Commissioner of Parliament, has faced pressure to resign but remains committed to staying with the NUP. He plans to address issues such as nepotism, corruption, and internal democracy through reform.
Mpuuga’s suspension and subsequent challenge highlight a significant internal dispute within the NUP, signaling potential upheaval and power struggles as the party seeks to navigate its future.
