Mukungwe MP Mathias Mpuuga has defended his bid for re-election, saying his 15-year record in Parliament positions him as the most experienced and capable candidate in a race that has become a major test of political influence in Masaka City.
Speaking as campaigns intensify, the former Leader of the Opposition said voters in Masaka have long trusted his leadership and ability to advocate for their interests at the national level.
“Masaka City is an area that I know so well. I understand the demeanour of Masaka and the issues dear to the people. For the last fifteen years, they have not questioned my capacity to represent them and demand their fair share of the national cake,” he said.
Mpuuga dismissed criticism that service delivery in Masaka had declined during his tenure, arguing that his opponents had failed to provide any evidence of stagnation.
“I understand the issues dear to the people of Masaka. For the last 15 years, they have not questioned my capacity to represent them, speak for them, and demand their fair share,” he said during a televised interview.
He acknowledged that the broader country faces service delivery challenges but said Masaka City had made notable progress due to coordinated efforts among its three MPs.
“In the midst of failed service delivery generally, Masaka can be isolated because the three MPs from the city understand how government operates and have been able to demand for our fair share,” he said.
Mpuuga also commented on rising political tension in Masaka, accusing some rival factions of turning the contest into a personal fight rather than a debate about development.
“There is one side that has chosen to make matters personal. Our side has remained focused we speak to the issues of the voters, what we have done, and what we intend to do,” he said. “Insults and abuses are flying from one direction, and the people of Masaka can see it for themselves.”
On concerns that switching political affiliations could affect his support, Mpuuga dismissed the claims, saying political mobility is normal.
“Changing a political party is not new, and it will not affect my capacity to return to Parliament. Inevitably, you lose one or two people, but as I lose two, I gain ten,” he said.
Mpuuga said early voter engagements indicate strong support, adding he is confident of returning to the Twelfth Parliament.
The Nyendo–Mukungwe contest is one of the most closely watched races in Masaka City, with shifting alliances and national party strategies expected to shape the outcome of the 2026 general election.