Mathias Mpuuga Launches New Political Party ‘Democratic Front’ Following Fallout with NUP
A Tectonic Political Realignment: Mpuuga’s decision to part ways with NUP has been the subject of intense political speculation in recent months, following mounting internal disagreements. Tensions between Mpuuga and NUP leadership exploded publicly after allegations that Mpuuga received 500m “service award” from Parliament, which party insiders accused him of accepting unethically.
Uganda Today Edition: Mathias Mpuuga Launches New Political Party ‘Democratic Front’ Following Fallout with NUP
By Uganda Today Political Desk
www.ugandatoday.co.ug | May 27, 2025
In a significant political development poised to reshape Uganda’s opposition landscape, former Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, has officially launched a new political party, the Democratic Front, in a move described by allies as “a fresh chapter for pragmatic and principled opposition politics.”
The Democratic Front is an evolution of the previously loosely coordinated Democratic Alliance (TDA), and now emerges as a fully registered political party with national structures and a reformist agenda. The inauguration ceremony, held in Kampala on May 27, 2025, was attended by key political figures, civil society actors, and supporters disillusioned with the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP) under Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.
A Tectonic Political Realignment
Mpuuga’s decision to part ways with NUP has been the subject of intense political speculation in recent months, following mounting internal disagreements. Tensions between Mpuuga and NUP leadership exploded publicly after allegations that Mpuuga received 500m “service award” from Parliament, which party insiders accused him of accepting unethically.
While Mpuuga defended the payment as lawful and consistent with parliamentary practice, the incident exposed deeper rifts. Sources close to both camps indicate long standing friction over ideological direction, power centralization, and accountability mechanisms within NUP’s leadership.
Joining Mpuuga in the new Democratic Front are fellow opposition MPs including Dr. Abed Bwanika (Kimanya-Kabonera), Hon. Kagabo (Bukoto South), and Hon. Kakembo Michael Mbwatekamwa (Entebbe Municipality) , all of whom have also voiced dissatisfaction with the manner in which NUP has conducted party affairs.
“This is not about personal grudges. It’s about building a credible, inclusive, and institutionally grounded political alternative for Ugandans who have grown weary of both dictatorship and disorganized opposition,” Mpuuga declared at the launch event.
Democratic Front: A New Promise or a Fragmented Opposition?
The Democratic Front promises to pursue structured dialogue, democratic reform, and socioeconomic transformation. Mpuuga and his allies argue that Uganda’s opposition must evolve beyond populist mobilization and embrace issue-based politics that unite rather than divide.
Yet political analysts warn that the proliferation of new parties—however well-intentioned—risks further fragmenting opposition energies ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“While the grievances against NUP may be legitimate, the challenge remains: can Democratic Front consolidate enough national support in such a short time to make a meaningful impact?” posed political commentator Mildred Kiconco, speaking on a weekend panel.
Still, Democratic Front backers believe Mpuuga’s extensive experience in both Parliament and grassroots mobilisation gives the new party a fighting chance. The party has announced it will embark on a nationwide consultation and recruitment drive, targeting disillusioned NUP supporters and former Democratic Party members who feel politically orphaned.
The NUP Response
So far, NUP has maintained a measured response to the splinter. In a statement issued by the party’s spokesperson, NUP reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values but urged its members to remain vigilant against what it termed “reactionary diversions” designed to dilute the momentum of the liberation struggle.
Kyagulanyi, while not directly naming Mpuuga, recently accused unnamed former comrades of “succumbing to the trappings of the regime,” a veiled reference many interpreted as targeting Mpuuga’s acceptance of the controversial service award and subsequent distancing from party positions.
What’s Next?
As the Democratic Front begins to organize its structures, the political climate in Uganda continues to evolve. With the 2026 elections drawing closer, observers will watch closely whether Mpuuga’s new movement will gain national traction or become one of many splinter groups struggling to gain footing in Uganda’s turbulent opposition arena.
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Contact the political desk at ugandatodaedition@gmail.com
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