National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine has said he holds no personal grudge against his former deputy, Mathias Mpuuga despite their recent fallout.
Speaking after attending a thanksgiving mass for the Kabaka’s 70th birthday at Rubaga Cathedral on April 13, 2025, Bobi Wine clarified that the decision to part ways with Mpuuga wasn’t rooted in hatred but in principle.
“We have no personal issues with our brother Mpuuga. There’s no bad blood. The problem was a mistake he made, which everyone saw, and his refusal to take responsibility for it. That’s why we made the decision to move on. That chapter is closed,” Bobi Wine told reporters.
Bobi Wine ’s comments followed a rare public interaction between him and Mpuuga at the event. The two were seen shaking hands and engaging in conversation, despite months of tension and public disagreements.
The rift between NUP and Mpuuga stems from a controversy that erupted last year over a Shs 500 million “service award” he accepted during his time as a Parliamentary Commissioner. The payment was part of a larger Shs 1.7 billion package shared among four commissioners in May 2022, a move that drew sharp criticism from the public and the party.
Mpuuga, who had served in the role for less than a year, reportedly took home Shs 500 million, while fellow commissioners Solomon Silwany, Prossy Mbabazi, and Esther Afoyochan each received Shs 400 million.
The fallout led to NUP distancing itself from Mpuuga, accusing him of unethical conduct and demanding accountability.
Despite the past, the atmosphere at the Kabaka’s birthday celebration was one of unity and reflection. Thousands gathered to honor the monarch’s milestone, including key political and cultural figures.
“We’re grateful to God for the 70 glorious years of His Majesty, We pray for continued health and wisdom as he leads his people. Agunde gunde Omuterega, Magulunyondo!”, Bobi Wine said in his tribute.
