Mathias Mpuuga, former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Commissioner of Parliament, and MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe, has strongly defended himself against critics following the High Court’s confirmation of Shs1.7 billion in service awards for him and his fellow commissioners.
Mpuuga, who was awarded Shs500 million for his tenure as LOP, responded to the backlash by urging his detractors to exercise better judgment.
The controversy erupted when Daniel Bwete, a petitioner, sought a judicial review over the awards, questioning Mpuuga’s payment alongside those received by commissioners Solomon Silwany, Prossy Akampurira, and Esther Afoyochan, each of whom were awarded Shs400 million.
Justice Douglas Singiza Karekona ruled that the service awards, granted in May 2022, were duly approved by Parliament and were part of the financial year’s budget, in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act.
In response to the court’s decision, Mpuuga criticized those who had attempted to discredit him, accusing them of failing to understand parliamentary procedures.
He asserted that the ruling vindicates his stance, affirming the legality of the service awards as he had previously maintained.
“The Court in its wisdom has determined that any MP who does not grasp parliamentary processes is merely a burden to taxpayers,” Mpuuga stated.
He continued, “The Court’s ruling supports what we have asserted from the beginning—that all procedures were followed correctly. While some have used this issue to disrespect me, I appreciate all Ugandans who have supported me.”
Mpuuga advised his critics to engage their intellect fully, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful discourse.
“With the court’s decision, I will soon share with Ugandans my next steps, particularly addressing the actions of those who have tried to tarnish my reputation by obscuring relevant issues.
It is disheartening that some of these individuals, who claim to be educated, have acted this way, but I leave their judgment to God,” he remarked.
He further noted, “The court’s ruling should serve as a reminder to those with heads and mouths that they must use their entire cognitive abilities, not just their voices.”
Mpuuga also questioned what his detractors would now tell the public about him, vowing not to waste his efforts on those who have focused on undermining him.
He concluded by stating that he would soon inform the nation of his future plans, noting that the past eight months have been marked by persistent attacks against him.
In a recent thanksgiving mass, Mpuuga expressed confidence in his ability to lead Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) and Uganda.
Meanwhile, amidst various campaigns like #TextTheThief, Commissioner Akampurira has detailed how she utilized her service award.
