Leaders from several opposition political parties have called for greater national unity, respect for human rights and adherence to constitutional governance, expressing concern over what they describe as growing political intimidation, alleged abductions and the weakening of democratic institutions in Uganda.
Speaking during a joint press conference hosted by the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) in Kampala, the leaders pledged to strengthen cooperation among opposition parties in what they described as a collective response to the country’s political and governance challenges.
UPC President Jimmy Akena said Uganda is experiencing a difficult period, pointing to reports of abandoned babies as an indication of the economic and social hardships facing many families.
He said no parent should be driven by poverty or desperation to abandon a child, adding that such incidents should concern every leader regardless of political affiliation.
Akena urged Ugandans not to succumb to fear, arguing that political leaders have a responsibility to safeguard the country’s future. He also called for increased investment in the health sector, saying medical professionals should receive adequate support to save lives.
The UPC leader further questioned the government’s handling of recent arrests and alleged abductions involving opposition politicians, journalists and activists. Referring to the reported arrest of Martha Karua and former Ethics Minister Miria Matembe, Akena said the incidents had affected Uganda’s standing within the East African region and urged President Yoweri Museveni to address concerns being raised by citizens.
Senior opposition politician Salaamu Musumba, a prominent leader in the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), said the alleged abductions being reported today reflect a pattern that has affected different parts of Uganda over the years, including West Nile, Acholi, Lango, Teso and Kasese.
She argued that insecurity and political intimidation have gradually spread across the country, warning that all Ugandans could become victims if the trend is not addressed. Musumba accused the government of using security agencies to maintain political power and called on citizens to unite against fear and intimidation. She also invited the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to engage in dialogue aimed at promoting peace, security and national unity.
The Chairperson of the Justice Forum (JEEMA), Haji Muhammad Mayanja Kibirige, said Uganda is witnessing what he described as a breakdown of constitutional order.
He alleged that political leaders, Parliament, opposition parties and even members of the ruling party are operating under intimidation. Mayanja warned that continued arrests and alleged abductions could fuel instability if left unresolved.
He also condemned the reported arrest of Miria Matembe, the detention of opposition supporters and restrictions on sections of the media, saying President Museveni bears ultimate responsibility for the conduct of government institutions and should intervene before the situation deteriorates further.
Meanwhile, David Alira Opii, Secretary General of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), said many Ugandans are witnessing arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention of opposition leaders and increasing restrictions on civil liberties.
Alira questioned who currently exercises authority over the country’s security operations, asking whether responsibility lies with the government, the NRM or other emerging political formations. He urged the country’s leadership to provide clarity and accountability, warning that continued public silence could deepen national tensions.
Former legislator and Forum for Democratic Change Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Robert Centenary, called on citizens to overcome fear and actively defend the Constitution.
He said every Ugandan has a responsibility to protect the country’s democratic values rather than leaving the task solely to political leaders. Centenary added that public officials entrusted with enforcing the law must themselves uphold the Constitution, warning that weakening institutions such as the Judiciary undermines public confidence.
Also addressing the press conference, Lulume Bayiga, Deputy President of the People’s Front for Freedom, said the growing cooperation among opposition parties demonstrates their determination to respond collectively to what they consider threats to Uganda’s democracy.
Bayiga criticised the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), alleging that it operates alongside the ruling NRM while using military influence to intimidate dissenting voices.
He further alleged that Parliament and sections of the Judiciary have become politically compromised and criticised the Speaker of Parliament over her association with PLU, arguing that the independence of Parliament should be protected from partisan political interests.
The opposition leaders concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to working together in defence of constitutional governance, human rights and the rule of law. They urged Ugandans to remain united and continue demanding accountability from those in positions of authority.
