In a press conference held at Parliament today March 26, 2024, Commissioner of Parliament Mathias Mpuuga vehemently denied corruption and abuse of office allegations made against him by his own political party, the National Unity Platform (NUP). Mpuuga, who is also a founder of NUP, remained resolute in staying in the party.
Addressing journalists, Mpuuga emphasized his unwavering dedication to NUP despite the serious accusations leveled against him.
“I’m here to state that I’m a founder of NUP. I did not join NUP; I was a part of the founding blocks of NUP where I serve as a Deputy President in charge of Buganda. I’m here to reaffirm that I’m not leaving NUP,” he asserted firmly.
Responding to claims that he had admitted to receiving UGX 500 M Mpuuga dismissed the allegations as baseless.
“As I had told you in my statement, there is no crime I committed. Even those who say there is a crime I committed have never explained it to me in legal terms. I reassert that I have not acted against the law.”
Mpuuga also addressed speculation surrounding his relationship with NUP President Bobi Wine. He expressed his surprise at the negative statements made by his party leader, claiming that they have not met personally to discuss the recent matters.
“I have not had a meeting with my party leader. I have only been hearing him speak in the media, press conferences, and funerals, trying so hard to convince the country that I’m a terrible human being, which the country has not accepted. We have not met, but possibly in the coming days if he pleases,” Mpuuga stated.
Meanwhile, NUP, in a statement signed by acting President Lina Zedriga, called for Mpuuga’s immediate resignation from his position as Commissioner of Parliament. The party accused him of admitting to receiving a substantial sum of money, leading to allegations of corruption and misuse of funds. However, Mpuuga remains unswayed by his party’s demands, reiterating that he is innocent of any wrongdoing and committed to serving NUP.
The NUP’s leadership, including the acting president, has made significant decisions regarding the corruption allegations against Mathias Mpuuga. The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has resolved to recall Mpuuga from his parliamentary commission role, replacing him with Francis Zaake. This decision comes as a result of allegations of corruption, dishonesty, and abuse of office, with the party claiming that Mpuuga failed to provide a satisfactory explanation that aligned with NUP’s values and objectives.
As the situation unfolds, Mpuuga remains firm in his commitment to the National Unity Platform, vowing to challenge the allegations and discredit any false rumors surrounding his name. The political atmosphere within NUP is undoubtedly tense, with ramifications for the party’s future direction and internal dynamics yet to be fully seen.
