In a satirical jab at the National Unity Platform (NUP), former East African Legislative Assembly MP Fred Mukasa Mbidde has suggested that Hon. Medard Lubega Sseggona lost the party’s parliamentary flag for Busiro East not on political grounds, but for failing a bizarre “acapella” test during vetting.
Sseggona, the long-time holder of the NUP ticket for Busiro East, was unexpectedly dropped in favor of singer-turned-politician Mathias Walukaga.
The party’s decision shocked political watchers and sparked debate about NUP’s internal selection process.
Speaking on NBS TV’s The Frontline, Mbidde quipped that Sseggona may have been asked to sing during the vetting—and failed.
“It seems Hon. Sseggona was handed a guitar and asked to perform an acapella. Sadly, he didn’t make the cut. Walukaga, on the other hand, passed with flying colors and took the ticket,” Mbidde joked.
He then questioned Walukaga’s legislative credentials.
“I’m still trying to figure out what legislative advantage Walukaga had over Hon. Sseggona,” Mbidde added.
He also took a swipe at singer Big Eye, who he said failed to appreciate the cultural “acapella” tradition in NUP’s vetting process calling it a sign of unreadiness and disrespect.
“I’m genuinely surprised that Big Eye didn’t understand this basic tradition. It shows a lack of seriousness and preparedness,” he said.
Expanding his criticism, Mbidde expressed concern over the quality of many new political aspirants.
“Most of these people are comedians. They don’t understand politics, have no strategy, and aren’t ready to lead. Take Namulindwa Flavia she has no grasp of political realities and isn’t equipped for what lies ahead.”Mbidde expressed.
His’s remarks have reignited debates about the transparency and criteria behind NUP’s candidate selection, with some questioning whether entertainment value is starting to outweigh political substance.