Mpuuga challenges Museveni’s ‘welcome’ apology, launches new political party, Democratic Front
Speaking at the DF launch, Mpuuga directly addressed President Museveni, acknowledging the apology but immediately challenging its validity.
In a scathing critique, Member of Parliament for Nyendo Mukungwe, Mathias Mpuuga, has publicly questioned the sincerity of President Yoweri Museveni’s recent apology to the Buganda Kingdom and the Ugandan people, linking it to the perceived persecution of political opponents.
Mpuuga’s remarks coincided with the launch of his newly formed political party, the Democratic Front (DF), on Tuesday, May 27th.
Speaking at the DF launch, Mpuuga directly addressed President Museveni, acknowledging the apology but immediately challenging its validity.
“President Yoweri Museveni and his wife, Janet Museveni’s public apology to Buganda and Uganda is welcome,” Mpuuga stated, as reported by the Daily Monitor.
“It would make more sense if he apologized and left power like his friend and teacher, Julius Nyerere (former Tanzanian President) did.”
Mpuuga’s primary concern centers on what he views as a stark contrast between the conciliatory tone of the apology and the government’s continued actions against the opposition.
“Making a public apology as you prepare the gallows for our children (opposition supporters) is questionable,” he asserted, suggesting that the apology lacks genuine remorse while perceived political enemies face severe repercussions.
The launch of the Democratic Front adds a new dynamic to Uganda’s political landscape. Mpuuga described the DF as a movement born from a yearning for “meaningful transformation” and a rejection of “the tired cycle of recycled ideologies.”
“Introducing the Democratic Front, a new political party that is deliberate in bringing freshness to Uganda’s political landscape,” Mpuuga announced. He emphasized the party’s commitment to attracting “logical thinkers, progressive minds, and those who believe in political ethics and disciplined service delivery.”
According to Mpuuga, the DF is not designed to be a disruptive force, but rather a “necessity born of the failures of the status quo.” He is positioning the party as a haven for those seeking an alternative to the existing political climate, one that prioritizes ethics, accountability, and authentic change.
Mpuuga’s pointed remarks directly challenge the authenticity of Museveni’s apology and raise serious questions about the government’s commitment to true reconciliation. The emergence of the Democratic Front further suggests a growing desire for change and a potential shift in the balance of power in the future.
The response from President Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party to this emerging political force and the accusations leveled against them remains to be seen. The DF’s platform and Mpuuga’s criticisms will undoubtedly be closely watched in the coming months as Uganda heads towards future elections.
