- Mathias Walukagga sold personal property to fund his Busiro East MP campaign under NUP.
- He was disqualified by the Electoral Commission over academic qualifications.
- Walukagga says avoiding loans spared him crippling debt that affects many politicians.
Renowned musician and politician Mathias Walukagga has defended himself following public criticism over remarks that he sold his personal properties to finance his parliamentary bid.
Walukagga, the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer for Busiro East, was recently disqualified by the Electoral Commission on grounds of lacking the required academic qualifications. Following his disqualification, the musician appeared in the media emotionally describing how he had sold off much of his property to fund his campaign and was now facing financial strain.
His comments sparked debate, with critics questioning whether Walukagga viewed Parliament as a quick avenue to recover lost wealth.
However, while appearing on BBS TV, Walukagga pushed back against the criticism, arguing that his decision was responsible and principled compared to what many politicians do during elections.
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“I used my own property and did not take loans. Assets are meant to help you in times of need, and that is exactly what I did,” Walukagga said.
He noted that although Parliament has 529 seats, thousands of candidates contest for political office each election cycle, fully aware that many will not win. According to Walukagga, a large number of aspiring MPs mortgage their homes or take heavy loans to finance campaigns—only to end up burdened with debt.
Walukagga argued that this financial pressure explains why some elected leaders fail to effectively serve their constituents, as much of their income goes toward servicing loans rather than community work.
“For choosing to sell what was mine instead of borrowing, I deserve credit, not ridicule,” he added.
