By AGGREY BULUBA
In a surprising political twist, the future of Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) has been thrown into uncertainty. The recent registration of a new political party, the People Power Front (PPF), by the Electoral Commission has added to the confusion. This development coincides with the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC)’s Katanga faction also attempting to register its party, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). Both of these moves have raised eyebrows among Ugandans, as the “People Power” slogan is famously associated with NUP.
As the saying goes, “When the fish rots, the head is the first to go.” Many are speculating about who might be behind the formation of the new party. Some suspect Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition, while others believe Dr. Kizza Besigye could be involved. However, Mpuuga has distanced himself from the PPF, attributing the party’s creation to NUP Secretary-General David Lewis Lubongoya, with the technical expertise of Spartan Achilles Mukagyi, a prominent figure within NUP.
To uncover the truth, we spoke with PPF’s chairman, Hajji Musa Misango, and general secretary, Spartan Achilles Mukagyi. Misango, a telecom engineer with a background in the United Nations, was a key figure during the early days of the People Power movement and NUP, playing a significant role in candidate identification and election management, particularly in Eastern Uganda.
Mukagyi, also deeply involved in the political struggle, served as a liaison officer for People Power and NUP before taking up the role of acting organizing secretary after the 2021 elections.
When asked about their decision to form a new party, Misango and Mukagyi expressed dissatisfaction with NUP’s internal politics and the lack of a clear ideology. They emphasized the need to introduce “mature politics” to Uganda, saying, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” underscoring the importance of building on tangible progress rather than chasing unrealistic ambitions.
Their departure from NUP stems from feelings of being undervalued and frustration over what they described as “mafia-like” internal factions. With these key figures leaving, questions are now being raised about NUP’s future, especially with the 2026 elections fast approaching.
The exit of other prominent figures like Sulaiman Kidandala, Moses Bigirwa, Dr. Loy Ssemboga, and Mukasa Mukaaku has further fueled concerns about the stability of NUP. Kidandala, who once played a central role in NUP, and Mukaaku, known for his outspoken criticism of government policies, both left amid allegations of internal struggles and lack of support. Their departures, along with those of Mpuuga and others, suggest deeper issues within the party than just mere disagreements.
The PPF is believed to have a broad support base, though specific details about its membership have yet to be disclosed. The party’s leadership is taking a cautious approach, with the chairman calling for patience as they finalize their agenda. “One step at a time,” Misango assured.
As the political landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear: “The night is darkest just before the dawn.” The coming days will determine whether the PPF will rise as a formidable political force or if NUP will manage to regroup and recover. The future of Uganda’s political scene remains uncertain, and only time will tell what lies ahead.
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