NUP Leadership Crisis Deepens As Masaka Leaders Defend MP Mpuuga Against Resignation Calls

The National Unity Platform (NUP) is embroiled in internal turmoil as leaders in Masaka district push back against demands from the party’s top brass for the resignation of MP Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba from his position as parliamentary commissioner.

The controversy erupted after the NUP secretariat released a statement on Thursday evening, accusing Mpuuga of corruption and abuse of office for accepting a ‘service award’ of Shs 500 million from the parliamentary commission. The statement, endorsed by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, cited violations of the party’s values and called for Mpuuga’s immediate resignation.

However, leaders from Masaka are now demanding a public apology and the withdrawal of the statement, labeling it as “ridiculous and unreasonable.” Charles Mary Mbanga, the chairperson of Masaka NUP Elders Council, read a statement accusing Kyagulanyi of acting on falsehoods propagated by a clique of individuals with selfish motives. They defended Mpuuga, stating that the Shs 500 million was his honorary gratuity, formally determined by the parliamentary commission, and not a corrupt act.

Mbanga further accused Kyagulanyi of tolerating indiscipline within the party, alleging that the president has surrounded himself with selfish individuals, including some family members, who undermine capable leaders.

In response, Mpuuga denounced the accusations as malicious and speculative, vowing not to succumb to what he described as a smear campaign. He expressed willingness to sacrifice for the party’s integrity but declined the call to resign, attributing it to envy and misrepresentation.

Meanwhile, Kyagulanyi reiterated his stance at a meeting of NUP leaders from Wakiso district, insisting that Mpuuga owes both the party and the public an apology for the alleged misuse of taxpayers’ money.

The clash within NUP underscores deepening rifts within the party, raising concerns about its unity and leadership cohesion as it navigates the political landscape.

For now, the future of Mpuuga within the NUP ranks remains uncertain as the party grapples with internal dissent and external scrutiny.