Dr. Abed Bwanika, the incumbent Member of Parliament representing Kimanya Kabonera County, has vocally demanded the immediate resignation of Lewis David Rubongoya, the Secretary General of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP). Bwanika, speaking on CBS Radio, asserted that Rubongoya’s allegiance is questionable, given his past affiliation with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Bwanika alleged that Rubongoya’s actions within the party are orchestrated to serve the interests of President Museveni, casting doubt on his loyalty to NUP’s cause. He pointed out Rubongoya’s educational background, which reportedly received support from President Museveni, and his initial employment ties to the same administration. Bwanika questioned the sudden shift in Rubongoya’s allegiance, likening it to a betrayal of trust.
Drawing parallels, Bwanika used a metaphorical scenario involving parental support for education to illustrate his skepticism regarding Rubongoya’s intentions. He emphasized his belief that Rubongoya’s inclusion in NUP’s leadership ranks was neither warranted nor transparent, insinuating undue influence.
Despite his objections, Bwanika claimed that his concerns were dismissed by the Party President, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine. Additionally, Bwanika accused Benjamin Katana, the Party Treasurer, of sharing similar allegiances to Rubongoya, labeling them as detrimental influences within NUP.
In a plea for the restoration of NUP’s integrity, Bwanika urged for the immediate resignation of Rubongoya and his associates, emphasizing the need to rectify the party’s course.
Rubongoya, in a 2021 interview, clarified his evolving relationship with President Museveni, attributing their falling out to the contentious issue of presidential term limits. He expressed disillusionment with Museveni’s prolonged stay in power and advocated for a peaceful transition to new leadership.
Meanwhile, Rubongoya’s colleague, Benjamin Katana, previously active within NRM structures, distanced himself from the party during the Age Limit controversy, aligning with dissenting voices seeking to preserve constitutional checks on presidential tenure.
