By Kabuye Ronald
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has named Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, Member of Parliament for Butambala County, as the acting Vice-President for Buganda Region. Kivumbi’s appointment follows the dismissal of his predecessor, Mathias Mpuuga, who parted ways with the party after a fallout over a controversial Shs500 million service award.
Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition and Deputy President of NUP for Buganda, was ousted from the party last year and has since formed a political pressure group called the Democratic Alliance. Kivumbi, who also chairs the Buganda parliamentary caucus, was chosen for the position by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, with approval from the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
The announcement, made at a media briefing in Kampala, revealed that Kivumbi will serve on an interim basis until June, when the party’s delegates’ conference is expected to confirm permanent leadership appointments. NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya highlighted the importance of the role, urging Kivumbi to embrace the responsibilities ahead.
In a brief yet telling response to his replacement, Mathias Mpuuga remarked, “I wish him luck,” signaling the end of his leadership chapter in the NUP.
The reshuffle also saw other strategic leadership changes within the party. Jacqueline Tukamushaba was appointed as Vice-President for the Western Region, following the death of Joly Mugisha, while Harriet Ageno takes over as Secretary for Policy, replacing the late Toret Akecha. Benjamin Katana was also named as NUP’s representative to the National Consultative Forum.
All of these appointments are acting positions until the forthcoming conference, as NUP strengthens its leadership ahead of Uganda’s next political season.
