Michael Mabikke, Secretary General of the Democratic Front (DF), has urged opposition parties to hold formal and structured discussions among themselves before engaging the government.
Speaking on Next Radio’s The Big Talk, Mabikke criticized what he described as a “rabadob” approach to negotiations, where opposition leaders rush in and out of State House claiming talks have occurred without a clear agenda or consensus.
“Dialogue must be formal and structured with a clear agenda, not in a rabadob style; running in and out of State House and claiming talks have been held,” Mabikke said.
His remarks follow a recent meeting between President Yoweri Museveni and a section of opposition members led by Yusuf Nsibambi, which has drawn mixed reactions regarding its inclusivity and effectiveness.
Mabikke stressed that opposition parties must first build internal consensus. “It is important to start dialogue among ourselves first; why would we engage President Museveni before we dialogue within the opposition, if it still exists?” he asked.
He called for a framework reflecting regional aspirations and equitable distribution of national resources. “It is time to sit around a table and develop a vision that ensures opportunities and resources are shared fairly,” he noted.
The DF leader also announced plans to launch a program in the coming months aimed at reviving dialogue, reconciliation, and transition.
