MP Nalukoola Faces Backlash After Taking UGX 350 Million for Car

Bahati shalom
Friday, March 28, 2025

Erias Nalukoola Luyimbazi, who recently became the MP for Kawempe North under the National Unity Platform (NUP)
Erias Nalukoola Luyimbazi, who recently became the MP for Kawempe North under the National Unity Platform (NUP), is now in hot water after taking UGX 350 million from the government to buy a car.
Many Ugandans, especially NUP supporters, feel let down. During his campaign, Nalukoola spoke out strongly against government overspending and called for better use of public money. Now, by accepting such a big car allowance, critics say he is going against the very things he stood for.
Social media users were quick to respond. Some called him a hypocrite, while others said opposition leaders must act differently if they want people to trust them.
"Opposition politicians should lead by example if they are to distinguish themselves from the ruling government they criticize."
This issue has turned into a bigger question about how honest opposition leaders really are. NUP and other opposition parties often accuse the government of wasting money and not putting the people first. But when they take large allowances like this without protest, it makes people wonder: are they any different?
This isn’t the first time opposition leaders have been called out for doing what they speak against. Taking these privileges can damage their image and reduce public trust.
"Such actions risk eroding public trust and diminishing the moral authority of opposition parties in holding the government accountable."
So far, NUP has not said anything about Nalukoola’s decision. This silence is making people wonder if the party has any system to keep its members in check.
"The party should clarify its stance on MPs accepting such allowances and establish clear policies to ensure that its members uphold the party’s core values."
Some NUP supporters are now pushing for the party to speak up and take a clear stand. They believe NUP must show that it holds its leaders to a higher standard, or else people will start thinking they are no different from those in power.
As Uganda prepares for future elections, moments like this matter. Voters are watching. They want leaders who walk the talk—leaders who care more about public service than personal gain.
"Ugandans are increasingly demanding leaders who uphold integrity and prioritize service delivery over personal enrichment."
Nalukoola’s decision has opened a serious debate about honesty, accountability, and the role of the opposition. Whether it changes anything in the long run is still unclear. But one thing is certain—it has reminded everyone that words must be matched by actions.