The warning follows comments by presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, who, while campaigning in Bugiri Municipality, urged voters to replace incumbent MP and JEEMA party president Asuman Basalirwa, accusing him of betraying the People Power movement.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, JEEMA described the remarks as “inconsistent and counterproductive,” noting they risk undermining the collective opposition agenda at a time when Ugandans expect unity.
“JEEMA notes with grave concern the inconsistencies emanating from supposed friendly forces, particularly at this critical juncture when Ugandans expect a united opposition front,” the statement read.
The party questioned the logic of attacking fellow opposition leaders while publicly endorsing members of the ruling party.
“We find it contradictory for Mr. Kyagulanyi to praise and endorse regime members like Right Hon. Rebecca Kadaga while calling for the replacement of a fellow opposition leader,” JEEMA said.
The statement recalled a similar incident in Koboko County in 2021, where endorsement of an NRM candidate contributed to the ruling party nearly sweeping the region.
JEEMA warned that repeating such miscalculations could hand electoral advantage to the NRM, particularly in regions like Busoga, where opposition parties have been consolidating support.
“Will the endorsement of Hon. Kadaga deliver Busoga to the opposition? Will the undermining of Hon. Basalirwa strengthen the opposition?” the party asked.
JEEMA reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement and issue-based politics rather than personal attacks.
“While JEEMA is scrutinizing various manifestos, we will not engage in tit-for-tat exchanges. Instead, we trust Ugandans to make informed decisions,” the statement added.
Party spokesperson Swaib Kaggwa Nsereko urged opposition parties to resist “external distractions” and maintain focus on building a united front for democratic change.
“JEEMA urges opposition forces to stay united and avoid external distractions. We appreciate the support Ugandans have accorded our candidates and thank Bugiri Municipality voters for their continued confidence in Hon. Basalirwa Asuman,” Nsereko said.