Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, famously known as Bobi Wine, and the President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, has stated that he won’t engage in verbal disputes with his suspended deputy for Central Region, Mathias Mpuuga. Bobi Wine expressed his commitment to adhering to the party’s established processes amid ongoing political turmoil.
Bobi Wine made this assertion shortly after attending Easter Sunday Mass at Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala, emphasizing his reluctance to partake in verbal altercations with his former deputy. This declaration follows recent confrontations between the two amidst allegations of corruption leveled against Mpuuga.
The tension erupted when Bobi Wine suspended Mpuuga over accusations of involvement in corruption, particularly concerning the controversial distribution of a substantial service award by the Parliamentary Commission. In response, Mpuuga issued a stern rebuttal, expressing his understanding of Bobi Wine’s predicament but also highlighting his inability to aid or endorse Bobi Wine’s stance.
This exchange of words intensified as documents surfaced detailing Mpuuga’s participation in sharing the service award funds. NUP leadership demanded Mpuuga return the allegedly tainted funds, issue a public apology, and resign from his position as Parliamentary Commissioner. However, Mpuuga dismissed these demands, prompting further discord within the party.
Efforts by NUP to recall Mpuuga as their Commissioner were met with resistance from House Speaker Anita Among, who cited procedural discrepancies in the party’s mandate. Despite these challenges, Mpuuga remained defiant, suggesting that the situation was being exaggerated and expressing hope for resolution through consultation.
In response to Mpuuga’s softened stance, Bobi Wine maintained his stance of non-engagement, emphasizing his commitment to the party’s established procedures. Furthermore, Bobi Wine addressed concerns regarding the incarceration of his supporters, asserting that negotiations with President Museveni for their release were unnecessary. He reiterated calls for the unconditional release of individuals detained for their political affiliations, dismissing notions of negotiation as futile.
Bobi Wine’s remarks follow a plea made by a NUP councilor during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed ministers, urging President Museveni to release detained NUP supporters. However, Bobi Wine refuted claims of negotiations, alleging that those advocating for dialogue were aligned with Museveni’s interests. He reiterated the fundamental right of individuals to associate with the political party of their choice and denounced the notion of negotiating for freedom.