Despite the controversy surrounding the allocation of a 500 million shilling service award to former Leader of Opposition (LOP), Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, the Nyendo-Mukungwe legislator remains steadfast in anticipation of the first installment this quarter.
Asserting his eligibility for the service award, Mpuuga emphasizes that the allocation was duly approved by the Commission of Parliament in recognition of his diligent service during his tenure.
In a radio interview on Saturday, Mpuuga reaffirmed his expectation of receiving the first installment, highlighting his entitlement based on parliamentary approval.
Amid calls from the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP) for his resignation from the commission of Parliament, Mpuuga, who also serves as the party’s deputy president, remains resolute in his position.
Refusing to yield to pressure for resignation, Mpuuga released a public statement on Friday, addressing the party’s demand for his removal.
During an appearance on Buganda Kingdom’s official Radio CBS, Mpuuga underscored his belief that neither Bobi Wine nor NUP possess the authority to remove him from the commission, asserting his innocence of any wrongdoing.
Denying any involvement in corrupt activities, Mpuuga reiterated his commitment to integrity and condemned any insinuations suggesting otherwise.
Explaining the rationale behind the service award, Mpuuga referenced an observed omission by the Parliamentary Commission regarding provisions for the Leader of Opposition post-retirement, highlighting the commission’s constitutional mandate to address leaders’ welfare.
Attributing the controversy to certain leaders within the party, Mpuuga criticized their role in misguiding the party president and influencing flawed decisions.
The controversy stems from the Parliamentary Commission’s minutes of May 6, 2022, which disclosed the decision to award a one-time payment of 500 million shillings to the LOP, alongside a 400 million shilling pay-off to backbench Parliament commissioners.
