Tensions flared at a National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary caucus event in Mubende when MP Twaha Kagabo was booed off stage by angry locals after delivering a speech attacking the National Unity Platform (NUP). The event, intended to showcase development efforts in the region, quickly turned chaotic as Kagabo’s remarks sparked an uproar.

The Bukoto South legislator, known for his vocal stance against the opposition, had been invited to speak during the gathering held at Kassana playground. However, his speech took a controversial turn when he described NUP as a “disease that spread in 2021,” a statement that was met with immediate backlash from the audience.

Despite attempts to continue, jeers and chants from the crowd forced him to end his speech prematurely and leave the stage.

Community Reaction

Many residents in Mubende, a region where NUP maintains considerable grassroots support, viewed Kagabo’s remarks as divisive and disrespectful. Several attendees expressed disappointment that a public development forum had been turned into a political attack platform.

Local leaders who spoke after the incident attempted to calm the crowd, urging unity and focusing discussions back on service delivery.

Political Fallout

The incident adds to growing political friction between members of the ruling NRM party and the NUP, Uganda’s largest opposition party. It also underscores the volatile nature of public opinion in regions previously considered NRM strongholds.

Analysts suggest that Kagabo’s remarks may have done more harm than good to his political image. “When you use a government platform to target opponents, especially in an area where the opposition is strong, it’s a miscalculation,” said political analyst John Kabuye.

NUP’s Growing Influence

The National Unity Platform, led by Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), continues to gain popularity among Uganda’s youth and urban populations. In recent years, the party has expanded its base into rural areas like Mubende, where economic grievances and youth unemployment have created fertile ground for alternative political messaging.

NUP representatives have yet to officially respond to Kagabo’s remarks, but party supporters online condemned the MP’s statement as inflammatory and uncalled for.

Conclusion

The fact that MP Twaha Kagabo was booed off stage in what should have been a routine political gathering reflects the shifting political sentiments in Uganda. As the country inches closer to the next election cycle, moments like these highlight the growing demand for issue-based engagement over partisan rhetoric.

This incident serves as a reminder to political figures that Ugandan audiences are increasingly assertive and responsive—and that public platforms should be used for unity, not division.