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The ongoing dispute between National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, and Nyendo-Mukungwe MP Mathias Mpuuga continues to escalate, with no resolution in sight.
Following Mpuuga’s refusal to resign despite calls stemming from the controversial 500 million Service Award he received from the Parliamentary Commission, Kyagulanyi retaliated, asserting that Mpuuga had been bribed.
Expressing his disbelief at Mpuuga’s involvement in such a matter without communication, Kyagulanyi emphasized the necessity for Mpuuga to apologize to the nation and step down from the Parliamentary Commission.
Kyagulanyi further questioned the justification for the additional Service Award given to Mpuuga, highlighting the existing allowances and facilitation provided by Parliament for the office of the Leader of the Opposition (LOP).
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In response, Mpuuga defended himself, denying that the 500 million shillings he received was a bribe. He clarified that decisions regarding awards from the Parliamentary Commission undergo scrutiny for legality, feasibility, sustainability, and relevance by relevant parliamentary committees.
Mpuuga argued that if such payments were considered corrupt, then all current and former MPs would be obligated to refund similar payments received as gratuity or honoraria.
However, doubts persist among the public and within the NUP regarding the legality and morality of the funds Mpuuga received, especially considering that previous Leaders of the Opposition did not receive such awards.
Kyagulanyi, through his social media platform, outlined ten reasons why he believes Mpuuga was bribed, emphasizing the absence of legislative provision for the Service Award and questioning Mpuuga’s actions in the context of conflict of interest.
Moreover, Kyagulanyi raised concerns about the timing of the meeting that approved the benefits, suggesting a deliberate exclusion of former Commissioner Francis Zaake, who was allegedly removed illegally.
The NUP leader expressed disappointment at the lack of consultation within the party regarding the matter, particularly given Mpuuga’s nomination for the position of Leader of the Opposition by the NUP.
Kyagulanyi concluded by stressing the need for transparency, accountability, and moral integrity in public office, calling on Mpuuga to apologize to the nation and resign from the Parliamentary Commission.
Mpuuga, however, dismissed allegations of corruption as part of a deliberate campaign to tarnish his reputation, asserting his readiness to face any challenges resulting from the situation.
Despite Mpuuga’s explanations, the controversy surrounding the Service Award persists, raising broader questions about accountability and ethical conduct within Uganda’s political landscape.
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