Analysts say Mpuuga's Democratic Alliance needs NUP to thrive
Plitical analysts have expressed skepticism about Nyendo-Mukungwe MP Mathias Mpuuga's newly launched Democratic Alliance, warning that it risks failure unless he finds a way to collaborate with the National Unity Platform (NUP), led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.
The two sides have reportedly been exchanging sharp criticisms for over a year.
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According to critics, anyone attempting to unite the opposition without engaging NUP is pursuing an impossible goal.
"Mpuuga's Party can not sell outside Buganda," said Prof. Rodgers Barigayomwe a political science lecturer at Kampala International University.
"Even in Buganda people are oriented towards Bobi Wine. No one is going to follow Mpuuga," he added
On Friday , Mpuuga officially launched the Democratic Alliance, describing it as a platform to unite all forces seeking change and to challenge President Museveni’s nearly 40-year rule.
"It's time to think a new. It's time to move a fresh. It's time to work again together," stated Mathias Mpuuga at the launch of the democratic alliance.
Mpuuga accused some NUP leaders in Parliament of abandoning their mandate to represent Ugandans, claiming they have become distracted by trivial pursuits.
He alleged that Kyagulanyi and his colleagues have failed to provide effective leadership and promised that the Democratic Alliance would work to address the needs of Ugandans, including offering support to opposition figures facing persecution.
However, political observers argue that instead of criticizing NUP, Mpuuga should have sought to collaborate with them.
They suggest that his alliance risks remaining limited to its launch-day fanfare if he does not build bridges with NUP.
"Because without the biggest opposition party on your side it means you are starting from the lower end," said city lawyer and political analyst, Elias Tumwebaze.
Some observers believe the success of Mpuuga’s initiative will depend on his ability to rally support from a broad range of stakeholders.
Prof. Rogers Barigayomwe, a political science lecturer at Kampala International University, warned that alliances formed for personal ambition, without fostering unity, could face significant challenges.
Mpuuga also announced a partnership with controversial musician Alien Skin, pledging to work together to mobilize the nation.
However, Prof. Barigayomwe cautioned against relying too heavily on the artist, pointing out that his unpredictable nature could backfire at any moment.
"He (Alien Skin) is using this as political capital like we've seen other musicians like Chameleon and others do this kind of back and forth."
Mpuuga revealed plans to transform the Democratic Alliance into a full-fledged political party, promising a major announcement soon.
