National Unity Platform (NUP) lawyer Samuel Muyizi has expressed his readiness to challenge former Leader of Opposition (LOP), Mathias Mpuuga, for the Nyendo-Mukungwe constituency seat in Masaka City.
Muyizi, who has been planning his political move for some time, believes the moment has come to contest Mpuuga, who has been in Parliament for 15 years.
In response to claims questioning his political maturity, Muyizi stated that his experience in elective leadership positions dates back to his time at Makerere University.
He highlighted his past roles, including serving as Minister for Culture and Entertainment, Chairman of Nkrumah Hall, Chairman of Uganda Young Democrats (UYD), Secretary-General of UYD, Youth Secretary for the Democratic Party (DP), and DP’s national legal advisor.
The Nyendo-Mukungwe constituency was created about five years ago when Masaka attained city status.
Mpuuga, initially a member of DP, later joined the People Power movement, inspired by Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), which eventually transformed into NUP.
Mpuuga secured the NUP ticket and won the first parliamentary election for Nyendo-Mukungwe, later being appointed LOP by Bobi Wine.
However, Mpuuga’s relationship with NUP has since soured, particularly following the controversy over the 500 million Shillings service award he received as LOP, despite serving less than a year in office.
This falling out has led to speculation about his future within the party and the possibility of a new challenge for the Nyendo-Mukungwe seat.
By Charles Katabalwa
1st April 2025
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