Mathias Mpuuga Asserts Independence Amidst NUP Suspension Drama
Former deputy president of Buganda region for the National Unity Platform (NUP), Mathias Mpuuga, has firmly stated that the party president, Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine, lacks the authority to suspend him from his deputy position.
In a recent appearance on NBS Morning Breeze, Mpuuga addressed the suspension and emphasized its lack of legal grounds according to the party’s constitution.
“Suspending a vice president falls outside the president’s jurisdiction,” he asserted, highlighting his familiarity with the party’s constitutional provisions.
Furthermore, Mpuuga underscored the need for political parties to prioritize national interests over personal agendas, cautioning against actions that may undermine stakeholders’ trust.
Reflecting on NUP’s organizational status, Mpuuga suggested that the party is yet to fully develop into a cohesive entity capable of achieving its objectives.
The suspension, initiated by Kyagulanyi in late March, cited allegations of corruption related to Mpuuga’s tenure as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. However, Mpuuga has adamantly denied these accusations, vowing to resist internal machinations hindering the party’s growth.
Despite facing pressure and calls for resignation, Mpuuga remains committed to serving beyond personal interests and advocates for integrity restoration within national and party politics.
In response to the suspension, the NUP Secretary General informed Speaker Among of the decision to withdraw Mpuuga’s nomination as Commissioner of Parliament, replacing him with Francis Zaake. However, Speaker Among contested the party’s authority to recall Mpuuga, citing parliamentary procedures.
In recent media engagements, Mpuuga expressed determination to stay within the NUP while criticizing its lack of direction and internal democracy. He outlined plans for party reform, aiming to tackle issues such as nepotism and corruption.
