In a bold declaration amidst rising political tension within the National Unity Platform (NUP), Mityana Women legislator Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa has unequivocally expressed her unwavering support for Mathias Mpuuga, stating she is willing to lose her party ticket to stand by her longtime friend.
Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa, the former NBS TV news boss and current Mityana District Woman Member of Parliament, has made headlines with her steadfast support for her embattled colleague, Mathias Mpuuga. During a recent appearance on Buganda's CBS radio, Bagala declared,
“I am ready to lose the NUP ticket as long as I am standing with Mpuuga. Our friendship predates my political career, and I will not abandon him now.”
This statement comes in the wake of significant upheaval within NUP, triggered by revelations that Mpuuga, the Nyendo-Mukungwe legislator, received Shs500 million as a service award during his tenure as Leader of the Opposition.
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The controversy surrounding this payment has led to a rift within the party, culminating in NUP President Bobi Wine recalling Mpuuga as a parliamentary commissioner and suspending him as Deputy President in charge of Buganda.
Political analysts interpret these actions as a strategic move by NUP to diminish Mpuuga’s influence.
However, the ongoing signature collection campaign, spearheaded by Lwemiyaga County legislator Theodore Ssekikubo, to censure the four parliamentary commissioners including Mpuuga, has inadvertently cleared NUP of perceived malice.In this charged environment, Joyce Bagala’s unwavering loyalty stands out.
“I have known Mathias for years,” Bagala shared on CBS radio, “and my commitment to him is based on our shared values and mutual respect. I will continue to support him regardless of the political consequences.”
Bagala is also an active member of the committee organizing Mpuuga's upcoming thanksgiving event at Kitovu Grounds, chaired by Kimanya-Kabonera legislator Abed Bwanika.
The event, set to be graced by Buganda’s premier Charles Peter Mayiga, underscores the significant support Mpuuga still commands within certain circles.While many of Mpuuga’s former allies within NUP have distanced themselves or remained silent, Bagala’s stance is echoed by a few notable legislators.
Hon Muwanga Kivumbi and Hon Medard Lubega Ssegona have also refrained from joining the chorus of blame against Mpuuga.
However, Mukono Municipality legislator Betty Nambooze stands as a notable exception, having publicly criticized Mpuuga and supported the censure motion.
Bagala's public declaration is not just a testament to her personal loyalty but also a reflection of the complex dynamics within NUP.
As the party navigates this internal crisis, Bagala's unwavering stance could either be a rallying point for unity or a contentious issue that further divides the party.
Regardless of the outcome, Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa’s declaration has cemented her position as a politician driven by principles and personal loyalty
