Mathias Mpuuga, the Commissioner of Parliament and former Leader of the Opposition in the House, delivered a resounding critique aimed squarely at his party’s leadership during a recent address in Mityana District.
In a passionate speech, Mpuuga appeared to directly criticize the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP), particularly its president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine. His remarks have been widely interpreted as a sharp rebuke, challenging the capability of those indulging in alcohol and marijuana to effectively challenge President Yoweri Museveni’s longstanding rule.
“Individuals aspiring for leadership roles should refrain from frequenting bars, indulging in alcohol, and using marijuana,” Mpuuga asserted firmly.
He highlighted the need for sober leadership, contrasting it with what he perceives as the disciplined approach of President Museveni, whom Mpuuga is steadfast in his determination to see ousted from power. Drawing attention to Bobi Wine’s past as a marijuana smoker during his music career, Mpuuga emphasized the importance of remaining clear-headed and attentive to national affairs for anyone aspiring to lead the country.
The Commissioner’s remarks are viewed as a direct response to accusations from within the NUP, which alleged corruption on Mpuuga’s part following the receipt of an allegedly improper service award amounting to 500 million shillings during his tenure as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.
In the face of calls from NUP for his resignation from the position of Commissioner of Parliament, Mpuuga staunchly defended himself, leading to an ongoing verbal confrontation between the parties.
While the NUP condemned the financial award, Mpuuga justified it as a legitimate gratuity that had been duly approved and passed by Parliament.
“Even within Parliament, there are instances where members pass legislation without fully comprehending its implications, only to later question its approval,” Mpuuga remarked.
The controversy escalated when a cropped document surfaced online, purportedly showing parliamentary approval of the funds. However, Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition and spokesperson for NUP, denounced the document as a forgery, challenging its authenticity by noting its absence from official budget documents and parliamentary records.
To date, no credible source has come forward to verify the document’s origin or substantiate its legitimacy.
In his unwavering stance, Mathias Mpuuga continues to navigate these challenges, asserting his commitment to transparency and accountability within the corridors of power.
