Tensions have risen within the National Unity Platform (NUP) as party leaders, foot soldiers, and opposition members express their discontent with Njeru municipality legislator, Hon. Jimmy Lwanga, over his reported meeting with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugana, the Chief of the MK movement. Accusations and denouncements have flooded social media platforms, with critics questioning Lwanga’s motives and loyalty to the opposition party.
Hon. Lwanga, in response to the photographs showing him engaging with the senior Presidential advisor on special operations, admitted to the meeting but clarified that his intentions were solely to lobby for the development and welfare of his constituents in Njeru municipality.
However, a joint opposition group led by Kyabagu councilor Hassan Muwanga Njaka condemned Lwanga for collaborating with individuals he had previously criticized for undemocratic leadership. They accused the embattled legislator of betraying both the NUP and the people who contributed to his success in Parliament.
The group expressed their disappointment, asserting that Lwanga’s meeting with Gen. Muhoozi was driven by personal interests rather than aligning with the NUP’s principles and the collective aspirations of Ugandans. They called for his resignation from Principal Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s NUP, highlighting their opposition to the MK movement.
In response, Hon. Lwanga clarified that he remains a member of the NUP and emphasized that his objective is to secure development opportunities for his constituents. He acknowledged the fruitful discussion he had with Gen. Muhoozi, during which he raised pressing issues such as youth and women empowerment, rampant land grabbing, and the implementation of pledged developments in Njeru municipality.
“I will do whatever it takes to lobby for my people of Njeru municipality so that my term is at least appreciated,” Lwanga stated. He expressed his belief that Gen. Muhoozi, as a key figure within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, could advocate for the concerns of his constituents with President Yoweri Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief.
The controversy surrounding Hon. Lwanga’s meeting highlights the complex dynamics within Ugandan politics and the challenges faced by opposition parties as they navigate alliances and seek to address the needs of their constituents. The coming days will reveal how this incident shapes the political landscape and impacts the unity and direction of the NUP.
