Kampala Lord Mayor aspirant under the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag, Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, has criticized Uganda’s current political landscape, accusing it of being “commercialised” and marred by intimidation.
Speaking during NBS Frontline on Thursday, the Nakawa East Member of Parliament expressed frustration with what he described as the monetization of politics in Uganda, claiming that genuine leadership and service delivery have been replaced by financial influence and political pressure.
“Politics in Uganda has been commercialised and we have been overwhelmed by intimidation,” Balimwezo stated, adding that such practices undermine democracy and fair competition.
Balimwezo also took a sharp swipe at former government spokesperson and veteran National Resistance Movement (NRM) cadre Ofwono Opondo, arguing that his recent election to Parliament would add little value to legislative debate.
“Ofwono Opondo will do nothing in Parliament. He will just be part of the numbers because he has to first catch the eye of the Speaker. His victory in Parliament will solely depend on the Speaker,” Balimwezo said.
In a swift rebuttal, Opondo dismissed Balimwezo’s remarks as “immature politicking,” citing his long-standing experience and record in Ugandan politics.
“I have been in politics way longer than you, Balimwezo, especially that of NRM — over 38 years. My name speaks louder than yours, so you cannot just brush me off and say money,” Opondo said.
Opondo, who was recently declared unopposed as Member of Parliament for Older Persons representing the Eastern Region, secured his position after Democratic Party (DP) candidate Joram Mpande Kigenyi withdrew a petition challenging his nomination.
