Mpuuga decries opposition weakness, militarised elections

Former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga has warned of an impending political crisis in Uganda, citing a weakened opposition, a ruling party in "survival mode," and increasing militarisation of elections.

Speaking to NBS TV in an interview, Mpuuga criticised both the government and opposition, arguing that neither is effectively addressing Uganda’s democratic challenges.

"You have a regime in survival mode and an opposition in disarray, unable to communicate among themselves, each believing in their own power," he said. "That is a bad omen for the future."

Mpuuga, who is also the National Coordinator of the Democratic Alliance, stressed the need for electoral and constitutional reforms, along with a clear political transition plan.

While legislation is crucial, he emphasized that meaningful change requires political will and open dialogue.

"Part of what needs to be done is not necessarily legislation. We need an open conversation where each party addresses its fears," he noted.

He warned that electoral violence witnessed in recent by-elections signals a "rehearsal for bad times ahead."

According to Mpuuga, the Electoral Commission has expressed willingness to implement reforms but insists it lacks the mandate to initiate changes without legislative backing.

"They said, ‘Give us legislation, empower us to do it. It’s you, Parliament, that must act,’" he quoted.

Mpuuga raised concerns over the military’s growing role in Uganda’s electoral process, arguing that it has historically been used to influence election outcomes in favor of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

"The military is rehearsing power grabs like it has done in past elections. Elections should be free and fair, but the military takes power from the people and hands it over to the NRM," he asserted.

He called for a united opposition to advocate for reforms nationwide.

However, he acknowledged that change cannot be achieved through confrontation alone but requires engagement with the ruling party.

"Commitments don’t come from making demands alone. Sometimes, they come from sitting at the table with those you disagree with and finding common ground," he said.

Before Uganda heads into the 2026 elections, Mpuuga urged political actors to demand clear commitments from the government, including ending election-related violence, stopping the abduction of opposition supporters, and ensuring a free and fair electoral process.

"Before we generate momentum for the next election, we must push the ruling party, which is intertwined with the state, to commit to political reforms," he concluded.

Recent clashes between security forces and supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) during the Kawempe North by-election have further escalated political tensions.

The violence erupted as NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) led a rally for party candidate Elias Nalukoola.

Security forces fired tear gas and forcefully dispersed the crowd. Earlier, police had manhandled Nalukoola shortly after his nomination, intensifying friction between the opposition and authorities.

The government later confirmed the arrest of 24 individuals in connection with the clashes.

Minister of State for Internal Affairs David Muhoozi told Parliament that the suspects face multiple charges, including illegal possession of military gear.

He downplayed the brutality as "skirmishes" but reassured lawmakers of the government’s commitment to a transparent electoral process.

The suspects, who appeared in court on March 4, 2025, were found with items including red NUP overalls, a beret, and a shield. Police also recovered a pair of rank insignia for Lieutenant General and Major General, allegedly belonging to a man identified as Nyeko.

Five vehicles including a Mercedes Benz, Range Rover, Toyota Noah, an ambulance, and another unidentified vehicle were impounded.

Muhoozi assured Parliament that the suspects would face due legal process, and allegations of excessive force by security personnel would be investigated.

Police accused NUP supporters of obstruction, malicious damage, and common nuisance, leading to the crackdown. Investigations are ongoing at Wandegeya Police Station, with the case file being prepared for submission to the Resident State Attorney.