It is considered a crime to speak good English in NUP- MP

MP Michael Kakembo from Entebe Municipality has claimed that speaking good English is seen as a crime within the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Kakembo accused NUP of criticising Matthias Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition, for his proficiency in English.

During an appearance on NBS Morning Breeze on Wednesday, Kakembo stated, "Speaking good English has been treated as a crime in NUP. They have been criticizing Mathias Mpuuga for his English."

Kakembo commended Mpuuga's performance as the Leader of the Opposition, noting that he effectively acted as a buffer for two and a half years.

However, he criticised the party's communication approach, emphasising the importance of obtaining information from parliament rather than relying on social media.

Kakembo expressed frustration with individuals spreading false information about parliament who do not reside in the area and are paid to tarnish the reputation of the institution.

During his remarks, Kakembo highlighted the discrepancy in treatment and resources between Ugandan MPs and their counterparts in other countries.

He criticised the debate surrounding the allocation of Shs 200 million for cars.

"When you look at the budget of Ugandan MPs, it is the worst in Africa," he stated.

Kakembo accused NUP of stifling its MPs, preventing them from speaking their minds freely.

He described MPs within the party as timid and criticized the party's treatment of dissenting voices.

"Imagine a political party that stifles its MPs. If a member of Parliament is not allowed to speak and provide direction to a political party, let them speak and witness what will happen to them," he said.

Kakembo also alleged that leaders within NUP supported individuals who abused politicians on social media.

The recent dispute within NUP involves Mpuuga, who expressed his support for party president Robert Kyagulanyi while raising concerns about the party's growth.

"We love him and want to support him to greater heights, but we also have to grow in the process. It is not right to hinder our growth," he said during a recent appearance on CBS radio.

Kyagulanyi had requested Mpuuga's resignation from his position as parliamentary commissioner, citing allegations of corruption and abuse of office.

In response, Mpuuga denied any fraudulent receipt of a Shs500 million 'service award' from Parliament.

He clarified that the funds were acquired through legitimate channels and underwent scrutiny by relevant parliamentary committees during his tenure as Leader of the Opposition.

However, former LoP Ogenga Latigo argued that the award should have been brought to the floor of parliament for approval.

The strained relationship between Kyagulanyi and Mpuuga has garnered significant media attention, with Busiro East MP Medard Sseggona criticizing Kyagulanyi's handling of the situation.

"If you are a leader and you are the first to make such a statement, it is wrong because when you speak, nobody else is going to speak," he said.

However, political analyst Imam Idd Kasozi expressed hope for reconciliation between the two leaders, noting that their relationship could pave the way for resolution.

The allegations against Mpuuga are serious, as they involve accusations of bribery related to the 500 million shillings he allegedly received as a 'good service award' from Parliament for his role as Leader of the Opposition.

The ongoing leadership dispute within NUP raises questions about the party's internal dynamics and its ability to maintain unity while striving for growth.