NUP Speaks About It’s Other MPs Who Allegedly Got Cash From The NRM Government

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has responded to allegations surrounding certain members of its parliamentary faction reportedly receiving substantial amounts of cash, ranging from 40 to 100 million Ugandan Shillings, for undisclosed tasks in recent days. While NUP acknowledges the claims, it asserts a lack of incriminating evidence to expose the involved members.

In the case of Mpuuga, leaked minutes from the parliamentary commission circulated on social media, detailing how Mpuuga and three other commissioners shared a substantial sum of 1.7 billion Shillings among themselves. Mpuuga admitted to receiving 500 million Shillings from this allocation.

The party discloses that in 2022, prompted by insider reports of questionable cash sources for members of parliament, they hastily convened a meeting cautioning legislators against accepting such funds. Unfortunately, two NUP members, Charles Tebandeke and Dr. Twaha Kagabo, had already received the money, with Tebandeke having utilized it before the warning. Kagabo returned the cash after being advised, faced parliamentary scrutiny, and later defected to Muhoozi’s MK movement.

Addressing concerns about MPs receiving unjustified taxpayers’ money, NUP emphasizes its role as the initial whistleblowers on a 40 million Shillings bribe in 2022. They note that some MPs, including Kagabo and Tebandeke, admitted to receiving the money, but measures were taken to address the situation. The party encourages those with evidence of misconduct to come forward for appropriate action.

NUP highlights their recent red flag on a purported 100 million Shillings bonanza received by NRM and some opposition MPs. The challenge lies in obtaining concrete evidence, as the distribution reportedly occurs in a secretive manner. The party calls on anyone with evidence of NUP MPs accepting such money to come forward in confidence.

Regarding Mpuuga’s case, the leaked minutes of the Parliamentary Commission, acknowledged by Mpuuga himself, provided a basis for decisive action. NUP asserts its commitment to addressing internal issues and acknowledges the potential consequences, even if it leads to members leaving the party for other political entities.

These developments unfold amid increased scrutiny of the Ugandan Parliament, with leaked transactions revealing coordinated activities allegedly orchestrated by Speaker Anita Among, adding to concerns over wasteful expenditure and misuse of taxpayers’ money.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) in Uganda has a relatively short but impactful history, marked by its emergence as a formidable political force challenging the status quo. Founded by Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, the party has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Uganda.

The roots of NUP can be traced back to 2018 when Bobi Wine, a popular musician and activist, decided to enter politics. Dissatisfied with the existing political establishment and inspired by the need for change, he founded the People Power movement, which later evolved into the National Unity Platform. The party aimed to unite Ugandans across various demographics under a common banner to bring about political and social transformation.

Uganda has been dominated by the National Resistance Movement (NRM), led by President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986. The NRM’s lengthy rule has been marked by both developmental achievements and criticisms related to governance, human rights, and the stifling of political opposition. Bobi Wine’s entry into politics represented a challenge to this decades-long status quo.

One of the distinctive features of NUP is its appeal to the youth. Bobi Wine, being a charismatic figure and a former entertainer, resonated with Uganda’s young population. NUP focused on issues such as youth unemployment, social justice, and political inclusivity, attracting a significant following among the country’s youth who sought change and a departure from traditional politics.

In August 2018, Bobi Wine’s driver was killed in Arua, sparking a series of events that led to Bobi Wine’s arrest and alleged torture. This incident gained international attention and highlighted the challenges faced by political opposition in Uganda. Despite facing legal challenges and persecution, Bobi Wine’s popularity grew, turning him into a symbol of resistance against the established order.

The People Power movement officially transformed into the National Unity Platform in July 2019. This move aimed to establish a formal political structure capable of participating in elections and effecting meaningful change. NUP positioned itself as a party committed to unity, inclusivity, and the pursuit of a better future for all Ugandans.

The most significant moment in NUP’s history came during the 2021 Ugandan general elections. Bobi Wine ran as the presidential candidate for NUP, challenging President Museveni’s three-decade-long rule. The election campaign was marked by intense political rallies, clashes between opposition supporters and security forces, and allegations of electoral irregularities.

Despite widespread enthusiasm for change and a significant voter turnout, the official results declared Museveni as the winner. Bobi Wine and NUP disputed the results, citing irregularities, voter intimidation, and an unfair electoral process. The aftermath of the elections further highlighted the challenges faced by opposition parties in Uganda, with accusations of harassment, arrests, and restrictions on political activities.

NUP’s impact on Ugandan politics cannot be understated. It brought a fresh perspective, mobilized a diverse demographic, and challenged the long-standing dominance of the NRM. However, the party also faced significant challenges, including political repression, legal hurdles, and the complexities of navigating Uganda’s political landscape.

The international community closely watched the developments in Uganda, expressing concerns about the democratic process and human rights. NUP’s resilience and the support it garnered reflected a growing desire for change among Ugandans, especially the younger generation.

After the elections, NUP continued its advocacy for political reform and social justice. Bobi Wine, despite facing continued political pressure and legal challenges, remained a prominent figure in Ugandan politics. The party engaged in grassroots activities, maintaining its commitment to the principles of unity and inclusivity.

In conclusion, the National Unity Platform’s history in Uganda is a tale of resilience, grassroots mobilization, and a commitment to change. From its humble beginnings as the People Power movement to its transformation into a political party, NUP has left an indelible mark on Uganda’s political landscape. The challenges faced by NUP, including political persecution, electoral disputes, and the broader struggle for democratic governance, underscore the complexities of navigating politics in Uganda.

While the 2021 elections did not result in a change of leadership, NUP’s impact persists, with the party remaining a formidable force advocating for the rights and aspirations of Ugandans. The future of NUP and its role in shaping Uganda’s political future will likely depend on the ability to navigate the complex political terrain, address internal and external challenges, and continue to resonate with a broad spectrum of the population seeking positive change.