By The funeral of Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, held in Butale Cell, Masaka City, became a stark reminder of the tensions between key figures in the National Unity Platform (NUP). Despite hopes for reconciliation, long-standing rifts between NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, and former Buganda region deputy Mathias Mpuuga remained evident.
Efforts by Mr. Mpuuga, who is also the Nyendo-Mukungwe MP and a parliamentary commissioner, to shift the funeral proceedings from the Ssegirinya family home to a nearby playground met with stiff resistance from NUP loyalists. The proposed relocation, intended to accommodate the large crowd, was rejected by mourners determined to honor Ssegirinya at his family residence.
A family representative expressed support for the mourners’ stance, emphasizing the importance of respecting their collective decision. “Ssegirinya was a man of the people, and if the majority wishes to hold the ceremony here, we must respect that,” a family member stated to applause from the crowd.
Even Ssegirinya’s mother, Justine Nakajjumba, acknowledged her preference for a larger venue but conceded to the wishes of the mourners. “I would have preferred the spacious grounds, but the circumstances made it impossible,” she remarked while extending her gratitude to all who supported her son’s send-off.
Political Tensions Emerge
The event highlighted deep-seated animosities between NUP and government officials. Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, criticized government representatives for their perceived indifference during Ssegirinya’s life. “They failed to grant him bail when it was most needed and even ignored the parliamentary tribute session. Their sudden involvement in the burial seems hypocritical,” he charged.
Kyagulanyi, speaking to the mourners, praised NUP supporters for resisting what he described as attempts to hijack the ceremony. “We must never surrender to intimidation,” he declared, promising that a suitable candidate would be chosen to fill Ssegirinya’s parliamentary seat.
Religious Leaders Steer Clear of Political Allegiances
Religious leaders balanced delicately between the divided camps. Sheikh Issa Mbaziira, representing the Kibuli Muslim Administration, led prayers at the NUP-organized ceremony, while Sheikh Ahmad Kabogoza officiated at the playground service. “Our mission is to serve all of Allah’s people, regardless of political affiliation,” Sheikh Mbaziira emphasized.
Parallel Gatherings Highlight Division
At the playground ceremony, Mr. Mpuuga, addressing a smaller gathering, condemned NUP supporters for obstructing the relocation. He described their actions as disrespectful to Ssegirinya’s status as a legislator deserving of formal honors.
Despite efforts by Mr. Mpuuga and Masaka City Woman MP Juliet Kakande to contribute resources, including a water truck and sound system, mourners aligned with NUP rejected their involvement. Even Ssegirinya’s children ultimately chose to return to the family residence, aligning with the primary NUP-led ceremony.
Mpuuga expressed frustration over the apparent hostility, noting the absence of certain individuals during Ssegirinya’s final days. “Many of those now claiming to care never visited him during his illness or at Lubaga Hospital,” he remarked.
Unresolved Tensions
The tension between rival camps, visible throughout the proceedings, highlighted ongoing fractures within NUP. What was intended as a solemn farewell turned into a pointed reflection of political discord, leaving many wondering whether reconciliation between key party figures will ever be achieved.
