The Inter-religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) led by the Mufti of Uganda Sheikh Ramathan Mubajje have requested Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga to spearhead the process of reconciliation and political dialogue between President Yoweri Museveni and all opposition political parties in the country.
In a meeting which took place in the speaker’s boardroom, the delegation which included Sheikh Ramathan Mubajje, retired Archbishop of Uganda Henry Luke Orombi, and retired Justice James Ogoola among others highlighted to the speaker the cause for reconciliation and national dialogue where she has to be the champion.
The delegation led by Mufti Ramathan Mubajje told speaker Rebecca Kadaga that, “Following the February 2016 general elections and the political impasse that followed, the IRCU enhanced in consultations with a variety of stakeholders to convene a national dialogue especially with consultations between President Museveni and opposition strongman Kizza Besigye but it received mixed reactions from both sides.”
His grace Henry Luke Orombi noted that, “We are opening wounds to some of the historical issues our government has gone through and we are sure people’s hearts will be mended regardless of the risks we are taking. Once we bring you on board, it will be a big achievement because being a speaker, you represent all the constituents in this country”.
Retired Justice James Ogoola, chairperson of elders forum Uganda, added, “Whenever we speak about dialogue, people ask always ask if it’s between President Museveni and Kizza Besigye and they forget that Uganda’ political problems stretch as far back as the 1966 constitution of Uganda and the Bunyoro quest which needs to be revised in the dialogue”.
Speaker of parliament Rebecca Kadaga told the delegation that, “This country has never held any dialogue other than the constitutional process and it will be a big opportunity where all political actors will meet and iron out their differences.”
IRCU last attempted to foster political dialogue between key actors during the presidential debate in 2016 and all the presidential candidates participated.
