Exiled Ugandan writer and outspoken government critic Kakwenza Rukirabashaija has criticized former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, accusing him of political opportunism.
The controversy unfolded on social media after Mpuuga, also MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe, announced the launch of a new political party, Democratic Front (DF), which he described as a “home for logical thinkers, progressive minds, and those who believe in political ethics and disciplined service delivery.”
Reacting to the announcement, Kakwenza, on Wednesday, took to X (formerly Twitter), to question Mpuuga’s track record and motives.
“You are known for jumping from one political party to another, one pressure group to another. No consistency or is it the zeal to be your own boss politically even when you are docile?” Kakwenza questioned.
Mpuuga responded to Kakwenza's criticism with a veiled jab referencing the novelist's exile.
“Hope you found something to eat today comrade! Exile is no bed of roses, it would have been easy to appreciate these matters on local food!! I'm with you!” the former LoP stated.
Kakwenza’s reply was scathing and personal, describing Mpuuga as “the eternal phoenix of opposition politics” and “a well-dressed enabler of the dictatorship.”
He accused Mpuuga of political posturing rather than resistance, and even alleged that Mpuuga’s only scar came from being shot in a personal scandal, not political action.
In the midst of the criticism, Kakwenza recalled a visit Mpuuga made while he was detained at Kitalya Maximum Security Prison, recounting a prison visit where, he claims, Mpuuga showed up without offering any real support.
“Not to throw jibes at a comrade in the struggle, who even drove his fleet of vehicles to Kitalya Maximum Prison to check on me with empty hands while I was sick and starving, but is his political party about values, or is it about survival and positioning?” Kakwenza stated.
Despite the harsh tone, Kakwenza hinted at a willingness to consider joining the new party, if Mpuuga could clarify its true purpose.
“I would want to hear him answer that so that I can see if I can join him since I do not have a political home.”
As of now, Mpuuga has not publicly responded to the claims regarding the prison visit.
