In the bustling town of Masaka, a dramatic turn of events unfolded as Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, the Member of Parliament for Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, revealed his next move on a fateful Friday. The tension had been building since his highly publicized fallout with his party leader, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the President of the National Unity Platform (NUP). The contentious issue: a shs500m service award fee that had become a point of contention between the two political heavyweights. With the rift between them widening, Mpuuga took a bold step, announcing his future plans to the eager crowd, leaving many wondering what this new development would mean for the political landscape.
Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, Commissioner of Parliament and MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, stood before a packed congregation at his grand Thanksgiving celebration in Masaka City. With a determined tone, he addressed the crowd, revealing his future plans. While acknowledging his capability to hold multiple positions, Mpuuga declared his focus on two critical objectives: championing electoral reforms and fostering unity among all freedom fighters in Uganda. His announcement was met with enthusiasm and anticipation, as the audience sensed a new chapter in Mpuuga’s political journey, one marked by a commitment to fighting for a more just and united Uganda.
The Kitovu Sports Grounds in Masaka City resonated with a spirit of unity and purpose as Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of Opposition, gathered with political leaders from across the spectrum, particularly from the Opposition, for a Thanksgiving mass. With a call to action, Mpuuga urged the leaders to put aside their differences and unite in their quest for electoral reforms. He emphasized the importance of listening to each other’s voices and speaking with a common purpose, fostering a sense of solidarity and cooperation. The event marked a significant moment in Uganda’s political landscape, as leaders came together to work towards a shared goal, paving the way for a more unified and democratic future.
Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, while emphasizing his commitment to unity and electoral reforms, reaffirmed his membership in the National Unity Platform (NUP) and extended an olive branch to the party leadership, seeking reconciliation and collaboration for the greater good. His call for unity and cooperation was endorsed by the Kattikiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who praised Mpuuga for his exemplary leadership and dedication to the people’s cause. The Kattikiro’s message, delivered by the 2nd Deputy Premier, Owek Robert Wagwa Nsibirwa, commended Mpuuga for practicing “clean politics” and championing the interests of the common people, further solidifying his reputation as a leader committed to the well-being of the nation.
Omutaka Walusimbi, the head of the Ffumbe clan, made a passionate appeal for reconciliation between Hon. Mathias Mpuuga and Robert Kyagulanyi, urging the two leaders to put aside their differences and unite for the greater good. He emphasized that if the two cannot be reconciled through the efforts of their clan heads, then their personal grievances are stronger than their clan ties, which would be a regrettable outcome. Omutaka Walusimbi’s words underscore the importance of unity and reconciliation in the face of adversity, highlighting the need for leaders to put the interests of their people and community above personal differences.
Omutaka Walusimbi’s statement adds a layer of cultural and religious significance to his appeal for reconciliation. By referencing the Catholic Church and the Kingdom of Buganda, he emphasizes the importance of respecting traditional institutions and the value of unity. By saying that if Mpuuga and Kyagulanyi refuse to listen to the Church and can’t be reconciled by Mengo (the seat of the Buganda Kingdom), it means they are prioritizing their personal differences over the wisdom and authority of these revered institutions. This highlights the gravity of their disagreement and the need for them to put aside their pride and work towards reconciliation for the greater good.
The three Parliamentary Commissioners, Hon. Esther Afoyochan, Hon. Akampulira Prossy Mbabazi, and Solomon Silwany, publicly commended Hon. Mathias Mpuuga for his resilience and courage in the face of political adversity. They praised his unwavering stance and leadership during a tumultuous period, demonstrating their support and solidarity with him. Their endorsement serves as a testament to Mpuuga’s reputation as a strong and principled leader, capable of navigating challenging political landscapes while remaining committed to his values and the people he serves.
Hon. Medard Sseggona (Busiro East) noted that he heard rumours that some people were calling members, telling them they would be denied party cards if they attended Mpuuga’s Thanksgiving. ”I’m glad I wasn’t called, and if it’s true, then it’s absurd. Friendships go beyond politics”.He said.
A section of Mathias Mpuuga’s supporters burst into a song in Luganda loosely translated into English as, “What are they accusing him of? Mpuuga did not steal.” This was shortly after the Thanksgiving mass held at Kitovu Sports Arena in Masaka.
The Friday Thanksgiving mass was presided over by Msgr John Baptist Ssebayiga who represented the Masaka bishop Severus Jumba and graced by Micro Finance Minister Haruna Kasolo, Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa.
Other political guests at the function included former presidential aspirant, Joseph Kiiza Kabuleta and Conservative Party (CP) leader John Ken Lukyamuzi, and MPs including Dr Abed Bwanika (Kimaanya Kabonera), and Joyce Bagala (Mityana Woman MP) among others alongside officials from Buganda kingdom and Mpuuga’s supporters.
