BY Dean Lubowa Saava
Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of Opposition and former Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) for Buganda, has issued a stern warning to those seeking to challenge President Museveni’s rule, emphasising that they must remain vigilant and focused at all times. ‘To effectively wrest power from the current administration, one must be sober and alert 24 hours a day,’ Mpuuga asserted, underscoring the need for unwavering dedication and strategic thinking in the pursuit of political change.
Mathias Mpuuga, a seasoned politician and former Leader of Opposition, threw down the gauntlet for aspiring leaders, challenging them to remain vigilant and focused at all times if they hope to effect meaningful change in the country’s political landscape. His remarks, seen by some as a veiled critique of his former ally-turned-rival Robert Kyagulanyi, underscore the need for strategic thinking and dedication in the pursuit of political power.
Mathias Mpuuga, a veteran politician and former Leader of Opposition, urged aspiring leaders to emulate President Museveni’s discipline and leadership style, citing his well-known abstinence from alcohol and smoking. Mpuuga emphasized that leaders must set a good example and prioritize their responsibilities, echoing Museveni’s own mantra of leading by example. By invoking the President’s well-known habits, Mpuuga underscored the importance of personal discipline and integrity in effective leadership.
While addressing a gathering in Mityana district over the weekend, former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga lamented the detrimental habits of some opposition figures, who he noted spend excessive time in bars and others engage in drug use. Mpuuga’s remarks aimed to emphasize the need for responsible behavior and focus among those seeking to effect change in the political landscape
Prior to his entry into politics, Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, had a successful music career spanning decades. During that time, he was open about his use of marijuana. However, in recent years, he has transformed his image, adopting a more refined and stylish approach to fashion, a departure from his earlier rugged and edgy persona from his humble beginnings in the ghettos. This transformation reflects his evolution from a celebrated musician to a respected political leader.
Although Mathias Mpuuga didn’t explicitly mention Robert Kyagulanyi, his remarks were seemingly aimed at the National Unity Platform president, who has publicly acknowledged his past struggles with drug and alcohol use. However, Kyagulanyi has consistently maintained that he has since overcome these habits and embraced a cleaner lifestyle. Mpuuga’s comments, while not directly naming Kyagulanyi, appeared to be a veiled reference to his past struggles, highlighting the need for leaders to set a good example and prioritize their well-being.
Mathias Mpuuga’s remarks suggested that Robert Kyagulanyi’s past drug use may still be a concern, but it’s evident that his supporters remain unwavering in their loyalty, inspired by the hope he embodies. Mpuuga emphasized the importance of leadership sobriety, contrasting Kyagulanyi’s alleged behavior with that of the incumbent president, known for his teetotalism. ‘You can’t lead effectively when you’re not sober,’ Mpuuga stressed, implying that questionable behavior undermines credibility. ‘The one we seek to replace doesn’t even drink wine, while others speak, leaving us to wonder what they might be using or drinking.
Mathias Mpuuga, a former Leader of the Opposition under the National Unity Platform (NUP) banner, had a high-profile falling out with party leader Robert Kyagulanyi in March. The rift followed allegations that Mpuuga, the member of parliament for Nyendo Mukungwe, had secretly negotiated and received a substantial sum of Shs500 million as a service award, sparking controversy and tension within the party.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) demanded that Mathias Mpuuga return the Shs500 million service award, but the former Leader of the Opposition maintained that he received the payment through official parliamentary channels and procedures. Mpuuga’s refusal to reimburse the funds further strained his relationship with the party, which had already been tense following the revelations.
While addressing a gathering in Mityana, Mathias Mpuuga used the controversy surrounding his service award to highlight a broader issue in Parliament. He asserted that the standoff exposes a deeper problem – lawmakers who enact legislation without fully comprehending its implications. Mpuuga emphasized the importance of sobriety in leadership, echoing the wisdom of the Kabaka (King) of Buganda. ‘Those seeking leadership must abstain from alcohol, drugs, and smoking pipes,’ he urged. ‘To lead effectively, one must be sober and alert at all times – 24 hours a day.
