Masaka, Uganda – The National Unity Platform (NUP) faces growing internal divisions as a faction within the party opposes former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament (LoP), Mathias Mpuuga, attending the burial of the late Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya. The burial is scheduled for this Sunday in Masaka, following an outpouring of grief over the passing of the revered Kawempe North MP.
Accusations of Betrayal
The opposition stems from allegations that Mpuuga has distanced himself from the party’s core ideals. The controversy heightened after Mpuuga accepted a Shs 500 million service honor, awarded for his tenure as LoP, a move some NUP members claim undermines the party’s mission.
Speaking to the press in Masaka, Herbert Muzira, a vocal NUP member, denounced Mpuuga’s potential attendance at the burial:
“Mpuuga has no place here. He abandoned the core mission of the party and took a payout from Parliament under questionable circumstances. Honoring Ssegirinya would be hypocritical given that he represents everything Mpuuga has turned away from.”
Other supporters echoed this sentiment, expressing that while the payout may have been legally processed, it has deeply eroded trust within the party and the spirit of their struggle.
Mpuuga’s Defense and Tribute
Amid the backlash, Mpuuga’s allies have defended the legality of the service award, arguing that it does not signify political betrayal.
In his tribute earlier this week, Mpuuga described Ssegirinya as a:
“Dedicated and selfless leader who faced immense challenges during his tenure.”
He highlighted his efforts to support Ssegirinya during his incarceration and illness, emphasizing the role of opposition figures in advocating for justice amid adversity.
Criticizing Uganda’s judicial system, Mpuuga stated:
“His illness and eventual demise exposed the weakness of our systems — weak, porous, and incapable of conducting coherent investigations or delivering justice.”
Mpuuga also praised the medical teams at Nsambya, Lubaga, and Aga Khan hospitals for their unwavering care.
Ssegirinya: A Symbol of Resilience
Ssegirinya, known for his fierce commitment to justice and democracy, was a beloved figure within NUP. His death has left a void among supporters, who view him as a symbol of resilience against political oppression.
The late MP’s family, led by his mother, has called for unity, urging all parties to honor Ssegirinya’s legacy by setting aside political differences during the burial.
Deep-Seated Tensions in NUP
The opposition to Mpuuga’s presence at the burial highlights the growing fractures within NUP. Mpuuga’s recent unveiling of the Democratic Alliance, a new political platform, has further fueled speculation about his estrangement from the party.
The burial, initially expected to be a moment of solidarity, now risks exposing deeper rifts within Uganda’s opposition. As the late Ssegirinya’s family appeals for a dignified and respectful farewell, the political landscape remains fraught with tension.
