NUP Urges Supporters to Participate in Elections Despite Electoral Concerns
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has urged its supporters and members to actively participate in Uganda’s upcoming elections despite expressing concerns about the credibility of the country’s electoral process.
Speaking at the party’s headquarters in Kampala, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya said although the party remains dissatisfied with how elections are conducted, boycotting the process would only undermine efforts to push for accountability, democratic reforms and good governance.
Rubongoya Calls for Active Political Participation
Rubongoya acknowledged the challenges surrounding Uganda’s elections but insisted that participation remains the most effective way for citizens to demand change.
“It is a shame that we continue to have these kinds of elections, but we encourage all supporters and members of NUP to contest in these elections. If you do not participate, you cease to have a right to complain when things go wrong,” Rubongoya said.
He urged party members to remain actively engaged in the democratic process as political parties prepare for the country’s upcoming electoral activities.
NUP Praises Ugandan Diaspora
Rubongoya also commended Ugandans living abroad for their continued support of the opposition party and victims of alleged political persecution.
He thanked members of the Ugandan diaspora for organizing demonstrations highlighting alleged human rights violations and for providing financial assistance to political prisoners, injured supporters and families of deceased party members.
According to Rubongoya, the diaspora continues to play an important role in advocating for democracy and supporting affected Ugandans.
Concerns Over Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi’s Re-Arrest
The NUP Secretary General criticized what he described as growing lawlessness, citing the reported re-arrest of the party’s Deputy President for the Central Region, Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, shortly after he had been granted bail by the International Crimes Division of the High Court.
Rubongoya said party leaders had received information suggesting Kivumbi could be re-arrested immediately after his release, creating concern among supporters during the bail proceedings.
He called on authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure that legal processes are respected.
Opposition Leaders’ Detention Raises Concerns
Rubongoya also expressed concern over the continued detention of several opposition figures, including former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.
He argued that the cases reflect broader concerns about respect for constitutional rights, due process and the rule of law in Uganda.
The NUP official further referred to the resignation of former Uganda Human Rights Commission Chairperson Maria Hajat Mwangadya, saying it underscored the need for stronger institutions and greater protection of human rights.
Call for Rule of Law and Democratic Reforms
Quoting American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., Rubongoya urged Ugandans to work together to strengthen democracy, protect the rule of law and promote peaceful political engagement.
“We either live together as brothers or perish together as fools. If we cannot work together to fight for the rule of law and democratization and a better country, we shall all end up facing the consequences of this continuing state of lawlessness,” he said.
Opposition Maintains Push for Electoral Reforms
The remarks come as political parties intensify preparations for upcoming elections across Uganda.
While continuing to advocate for comprehensive electoral reforms, the National Unity Platform says it will encourage its members and supporters to participate fully in the electoral process as it seeks to advance democratic governance through lawful political engagement.
