Tensions are rising within Uganda’s political landscape as the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) faction based at Najjanankumbi criticizes National Unity Platform (NUP) party President, Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobiwine, for what they believe to be a personal grudge against Hon. Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, the former Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LOP).
John Kikonyogo, the Spokesperson of the FDC faction, expressed his disappointment at the NUP leadership’s alleged harassment of Hon. Mpuuga. Speaking during the FDC’s weekly press conference on Monday, March 4, 2025, Kikonyogo condemned Bobiwine’s actions, stating that it not only demonstrated unprofessionalism but also jeopardized the unity of the opposition party.
Kikonyogo pointed out the detrimental consequences of such internal conflicts within political parties, citing the crisis that rocked the FDC and Democratic Party in the past. He emphasized that prioritizing personal interests over those of the party and the nation as a whole leads not only to a loss of public trust but also hinders the opposition from securing the presidential election and other top positions in the country.
“The NUP should handle this carefully, otherwise any slight mistake will break the party, as it did with the FDC,” warned Kikonyogo, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation among opposition leaders.
The FDC spokesperson further highlighted the importance of learning from past mistakes, urging the NUP to avoid repeating the same pattern that caused division within the FDC and led to distrust from the Ugandan people.
These remarks from the FDC faction come in light of Hon. Mpuuga’s recent removal from his position as Parliamentary Commissioner by the NUP. This decision was made following the exposure of social media hashtag #UgandaParliamentExhibition, which alleged that Hon. Mpuuga improperly benefited from ‘service awards’ totaling Ugx 500 million.
The actions taken by the NUP leadership have sparked controversy and are now being scrutinized by voices within the opposition camp. Many are concerned that personal grudges and internal conflicts may weaken the party’s potential to challenge the ruling government and bring about real change.
