Embattled former Leader of Opposition (LOP) the Rt. Hon. Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba has firmly asserted his position within the National Unity Platform (NUP), stating unequivocally that no one, not even party president Hon. Robert KyagulanyiSentamu, alias Bobiwine can expel him from the party.
Speaking to the media at Parliament on Tuesday Morning, Mathias Mpuuga addressed concerns regarding his status within the party.
“Let me now assure the entire NUP leadership, membership, supporters, and the general public. NUP is my party, and I harbor no intentions of leaving, as I said before.” he asserted.
Despite acknowledging the imperfections within the young party, Mpuuga highlighted issues of disrespect from some younger members towards senior figures within the party. He pledged to remain within NUP to rectify these issues, stating, “We must instill discipline in NUP. It is a young party, and there is still much to learn. I will not leave NUP. I am committed to cleaning it of those who seek to tarnish its reputation.”
While Mpuuga emphasized that he holds no personal grudges against Kyagulanyi, he expressed disappointment in what he perceives as attempts to tarnish his reputation. “He has been everywhere trying to soil my name,” Mpuuga remarked, adding, “But I am ready to talk to him. I am available, but he is very busy.”
Regarding his absence from a recent meeting called by Robert Kyagulanyi, Mpuuga explained that he saw no significant agenda attached to the gathering.
“I decide whether to attend a meeting or not. I was called, but I did not see its importance. I don’t attend meetings just for the sake of it. I prefer meetings with a clear agenda,” he asserted.
Throughout the media interaction, Mathias Mpuuga maintained a composed demeanor, although he became visibly agitated when pressed on certain matters. When questioned about stepping down as commissioner, a demand made by his party, Mpuuga responded assertively, “I have already addressed that question.”
The National Unity Platform had recently sought to recall Hon. Mpuuga as its commissioner following revelations of him receiving a service award of Shs 500 million from Parliament. However, the decision faces potential challenges in enforcement, as Ugandan parliamentary rules stipulate that the removal of a commissioner requires a vote of more than two-thirds of its members.
Mpuuga's unwavering stance underscores the internal tensions within NUP and the complex dynamics at play within Uganda's political landscape.
