Former Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Mathias Mpuuga has officially unveiled the Democratic Alliance, a new political coalition aimed at uniting Uganda’s opposition forces to challenge President Museveni’s nearly four-decade rule.
Speaking to a large gathering at Malibu Gardens in Kampala on Friday, Mpuuga outlined a bold vision for the Alliance, emphasizing unity, electoral reforms, and the pursuit of democratic governance.
“This Uganda that was formed 63 years ago has not achieved the democracy we desire,” Mpuuga said.
He highlighted the need for comprehensive electoral reforms and a fresh approach to politics, particularly for the youth.
He pledged that the Democratic Alliance would transform into a political party in the coming months, with plans to field candidates, including a presidential aspirant, in the next elections.
Mpuuga attributed the stagnation in Uganda’s democratic progress to divisions within the opposition.
“We have lost time backstabbing each other instead of serving the enemy of our common people. It’s time to unite under one big tent,” he declared.
Abed Bwanika Joins Alliance, Criticizes NUP Leadership
Dr. Abed Bwanika, MP for Kimanya-Kabonera, stood in solidarity with Mpuuga while launching a scathing critique of Robert Kyagulanyi and the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Bwanika accused Kyagulanyi of monopolizing power, disrespecting the Buganda Kingdom, and tolerating controversial global policies, including LGBTQ advocacy.
“I will not associate myself with any political leader who supports homosexuality,” Bwanika stated, referencing alleged ties between Kyagulanyi and prominent international figures known for their LGBTQ rights advocacy.
He also challenged Kyagulanyi’s leadership style, questioning his ambitions in relation to Buganda’s cultural leadership.
Bwanika further asserted that Kyagulanyi’s approach to politics had disrespected the broader struggle for change, saying, “People must desist from petty politics. I will remain in the struggle until we achieve meaningful transformation.”
The National Unity Platform, under Robert Kyagulanyi’s leadership, emerged as Uganda’s main opposition force during the 2021 elections, winning 61 parliamentary seats.
However, internal divisions and accusations of mismanagement have marred the party’s progress.
Recently, Kyagulanyi suspended Mpuuga, who was serving as NUP Deputy President for the Central Region, over alleged corruption linked to his tenure as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.
Kyagulanyi accused Mpuuga of misappropriating funds, a claim Mpuuga dismissed as politically motivated.
Despite these challenges, Kyagulanyi has positioned NUP as a symbol of hope for many Ugandans especially the youth seeking change.
Yet, the internal struggles highlight the difficulties faced by opposition parties in uniting against Museveni’s government.
Criticism
Former Leader of the Opposition, Prof. Ogenga Latigo, criticized Mpuuga’s move to form the Democratic Alliance, describing it as an attempt to salvage his reputation.
“Unless he wants to be president of Masaka, Mpuuga is corrupt. He should admit his mistakes, go back to NUP, and apologize,” Latigo said in a recent interview.
The Democratic Alliance aims to bring together factions from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), Democratic Party (DP), and other groups under a single platform. Mpuuga pledged to fight for electoral reforms, promote youth-driven politics, and restore faith in Uganda’s democratic process.
“Togetherness and discipline will help us demand democracy and achieve the change Uganda needs,” Mpuuga concluded.
As Uganda approaches its next electoral cycle, the emergence of the Democratic Alliance signals a new chapter in the opposition’s struggle to challenge the status quo. Whether this coalition can overcome internal divisions and rally Ugandans remains to be seen.