As Uganda inches closer to the 2026 general election, President Yoweri Museveni has begun reeling in key opposition figures to strengthen his ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In a calculated move, Museveni recently welcomed Bugweri MP Abdu Katuntu and Bardege-Layibi Division MP Martin Ojara Mapenduzi into the NRM parliamentary caucus, signalling a strategic shift ahead of the polls.
Critics now speculate that Mathias Mpuuga, the Parliamentary Commissioner and a prominent ‘rebel‘ National Unity Platform’ Member of Parliament.
Once vocal opposition leaders, both MPs now represent a growing trend of political figures realigning themselves with the NRM ahead of the next election.
The inclusion of Katuntu, a longtime critic of Museveni who was once referred to by the president as a “poisonous mushroom,” is particularly striking.
His shift from opposition stalwart to an NRM supporter underscores the fluidity of Uganda’s political scene and the ongoing efforts by Museveni to consolidate power across different regions and factions.
Katuntu’s move to the NRM was significant because Museveni once described him as a “poisonous mushroom” in 2005, warning people to stay away from him.
At the time, Katuntu was a strong opposition figure in the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and later became a founding member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), aligning with opposition leader Gen Mugisha Muntu.
Over the years, Katuntu became a key opposition voice but, in 2021, he ran as an independent MP.
His growing alignment with the NRM was evident to many observers, especially after he hinted at supporting Museveni in the 2021 elections.
Museveni’s welcoming speech suggested that Katuntu had “seen the light” and joined the NRM, marking a major shift in Uganda’s political landscape.
Katuntu’s decision has led to speculation about potential rewards, including a ministerial position.
Some insiders believe Katuntu is being positioned for a role in an upcoming cabinet reshuffle, possibly as a minister, given his influence in parliament as the chair of the Rules, Privileges, and Discipline Committee.
Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, another former opposition figure, was also introduced into the NRM caucus.
Mapenduzi is known for leading the motion to remove Francis Zaake from a parliamentary commissioner role after Zaake insulted the Speaker of Parliament.
Previously affiliated with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), Mapenduzi’s shift to the NRM was not entirely unexpected, as his political affiliations have been fluid, much like Katuntu’s.
His move also reflects broader political realignments in northern Uganda, where Museveni has made significant efforts to strengthen his political influence.
These moves by Katuntu and Mapenduzi highlight how Uganda’s political landscape is changing, with once staunch opposition figures now aligning with the NRM.
This not only strengthens Museveni’s hold on power but also illustrates how political alliances in Uganda can shift dramatically over time.
Many are now waiting to see if these MPs will be rewarded with influential government positions in the coming months, especially as Museveni continues to consolidate his influence across the country.
Mpuuga May Be Next
Critics are now speculating that Mathias Mpuuga, the Commissioner of Parliament and Nyendo-Mukungwe MP from the National Unity Platform (NUP), could be the next prominent opposition leader to join Museveni’s ruling side.
Political observers suggest that Museveni’s strategy of co-opting influential opposition figures may soon extend to Mpuuga.
Still, rumours have circulated that Mpuuga, who has maintained a pragmatic approach to leadership, could be under increasing pressure to align with the NRM, especially as the 2026 elections approach.
While Mpuuga has shown no public signs of crossing over, critics argue that his political manoeuvres in recent months suggest he could be positioning himself for a possible shift, much like Katuntu and Mapenduzi.
Mpuuga, along with three other parliamentary commissioners, has faced intense public scrutiny over accusations of awarding themselves a share of UGX1.7 billion.
This controversy has sparked widespread criticism from NUP leadership, opposition supporters, and the general public.
Despite the backlash, Mpuuga has remained defiant, severing ties with the party’s top leadership in the wake of these allegations.
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