Nyendo-Mukungwe Member of Parliament, Mathias Mpuuga, is facing speculation within the National Unity Platform (NUP) about an alleged plan to remove him from the party’s ranks ahead of the 2026 general election.Rumors circulating suggest the existence of a scheme, supposedly orchestrated by Masaka City Woman Councillor Alice Nanungi and specific party leaders in Kampala, notably led by Fred Nyanzi, the party’s secretary for mobilization.
Reports indicate that Nyanzi, purportedly acting on directives from his brother and NUP president, Robert Kyagulanyi, seeks to undermine Mpuuga’s position using the ‘Kkunga Uganda’ campaign and strategize to unseat him in 2026.Both Nyanzi and Nanungi vehemently deny these claims, distancing themselves from any involvement in alleged machinations against Mpuuga, who also holds the position of the party’s deputy president for the Buganda region.
In response to inquiries, Mpuuga dismissed the alleged plot with a touch of humor, highlighting his extensive experience with electoral competition. He welcomed potential challengers, citing his consistent history of facing multiple opponents in past elections.Addressing concerns about the ‘Kkunga Uganda’ campaign’s deployment in Masaka City, an Opposition stronghold, Mpuuga downplayed its significance, categorizing it as trivial amidst his broader responsibilities.
When questioned about his relationship with Kyagulanyi, Mpuuga maintained a pragmatic stance, emphasizing the division of labor within the party and his dedication to his assigned tasks.Given NUP’s increasing prominence as the main Opposition party in Uganda, questions arise about its longevity and internal cohesion.
Mpuuga refrained from making sweeping predictions, focusing on his specific role in unifying the party within the Buganda region.The reported discord between Mpuuga and certain NUP leaders, aligned with Kyagulanyi, regarding the party’s strategic approach to Opposition politics, has persisted for two years. Mpuuga is accused of adopting a less confrontational political stance, diverging from the perceived imperative of advocating for regime change in Uganda.
