Speaking at a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Kavule, Rubongoya cited the treatment of former Ethics Minister Dr Miria Matembe, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye as examples of what he termed persistent political repression requiring urgent reform.
“The treatment of leaders like Miria Matembe, Erias Lukwago and Dr Kizza Besigye shows that there is still a lot that must change if Uganda is to have a truly democratic and fair political environment,” Rubongoya said.
He argued that opposition politicians continue to face structural and institutional challenges that undermine meaningful political participation, calling for greater respect for constitutional rights and democratic freedoms.
Rubongoya’s remarks come at a time when Matembe is before court on charges of promoting sectarianism and is simultaneously pursuing a bail application after being remanded to Luzira Prison earlier this week.
Her case has drawn significant political and civil society attention, with concerns raised over her health, the circumstances of her arrest, and allegations by her defence team that she was subjected to an irregular detention process before being produced in court.
Rubongoya did not directly comment on the legal merits of the case but used it as part of a broader argument on what he described as shrinking political space for opposition and dissenting voices.
He also pointed to the ongoing legal and political challenges involving other opposition figures, including Erias Lukwago and Dr Kizza Besigye, as part of a pattern that, in his view, reflects the need for democratic reforms.
The NUP Secretary General’s remarks come as the party continues to contest the outcome of the recently concluded Kalangala District Woman MP by-election, which it says did not reflect the will of voters.
The party has raised concerns about the electoral process while maintaining that it will still participate in the forthcoming Local Council and Women’s Council elections scheduled for later this month.
Several aspiring NUP candidates for local council positions said they were proceeding with campaigns despite concerns about the political environment, expressing hope that participation would help strengthen grassroots representation.
Rubongoya urged supporters to remain engaged in the electoral process while continuing to push for reforms aimed at improving transparency, credibility and fairness in Uganda’s elections.
The party says sustained participation combined with reform advocacy remains central to its strategy as it prepares for upcoming grassroots polls across the country.