In a moment that surprised many Ugandans, political rivals Bobi Wine and Mathias Mpuuga were seen seated together during the 70th birthday thanksgiving prayers of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II at Rubaga Cathedral on Sunday. Here is the video https://www.youtube.com/shorts/BmxPqhH2mgg
The event, attended by royals, clergy, and dignitaries, took an unexpected turn when the two opposition figures were ushered to adjacent seats by church protocol.
Bobi Wine, leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), and Mpuuga, a former Leader of Opposition and now estranged from the party’s inner circles, have been at loggerheads in recent months following disagreements over accountability and party direction. Their icy relationship has fueled speculation of a widening rift within the opposition.
However, during the solemn service led by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, the two men maintained composure, occasionally exchanging polite nods.
Sources within the church say the seating arrangement was intentional, aimed at promoting reconciliation in line with the Kabaka’s birthday message that emphasized unity, forgiveness, and cultural pride.
Speaking to the press outside the cathedral, Bobi Wine chose not to comment on the incident, instead urging all Ugandans to “honor the Kabaka’s wisdom by fostering unity.” Mpuuga, too, kept his remarks brief, saying he came “to celebrate the life of our cultural leader, not to dwell on politics.”
Whether the gesture signals a thaw in their strained relationship remains to be seen, but for many, the image of the two together was symbolic—and hopeful.