The President of the Justice Forum party, Asuman Basalirwa, has called for a comprehensive national dialogue, saying Uganda’s political challenges require honest engagement beyond partisan politics and grounded in constitutional governance.
Speaking on NBS Television’s Frontline programme on Thursday, Basalirwa said the country continues to grapple with unresolved governance concerns that have persisted for years.
“There is something that needs to be discussed in terms of rule of law, constitutional governance and respect for each other,” he said.
He argued that earlier efforts before the 2016 general election, led by religious leaders and civil society groups, had attempted to push for a national conversation on governance issues that remain relevant today.
“A national consensus is beyond government and opposition. It is broader than the political class,” he said.
Basalirwa’s remarks come amid heightened political tension, with several opposition figures facing legal proceedings and detention, a situation that has reignited debate over Uganda’s political climate.
Former Kampala Lord Mayor and People’s Front for Freedom leader Erias Lukwago is currently on remand at Luzira Prison after being charged with misprision of treason.
The state alleges that Lukwago failed to report alleged plans involving Dr Kizza Besigye and others to overthrow the government, allegations he denies.
His arrest has drawn criticism from legal bodies, including the Uganda Law Society, which has questioned the circumstances under which he was apprehended, especially given his role as Besigye’s lead defence lawyer.
Basalirwa said while no one is above the law, state agencies must strictly adhere to lawful procedures when carrying out arrests.
“The manner of Lukwago’s arrest offended all the measures needed for an arrest,” he said.
He also weighed in on the ongoing treason case against Dr Kizza Besigye, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his return from Kenya.
Basalirwa noted concerns regarding immigration records linked to Besigye’s movements, as legal proceedings in the case continue amid repeated delays and challenges from the defence team.
Besigye remains on remand at Luzira Maximum Security Prison as his case continues to attract political and legal scrutiny.
Basalirwa urged stakeholders not to view dialogue as weakness, insisting that many national disputes could be resolved through structured engagement if taken seriously.
“I don’t think discussion is weakness. Many of our issues can be resolved with discussion if those who take part take it seriously,” he said.
His remarks add to growing calls from sections of the opposition and civil society for renewed political dialogue as Uganda navigates an increasingly tense political period.