Basalirwa Calls for National Dialogue and Constitutional Reforms Amid Rising Political Tensions

The President of the Justice Forum (JEEMA), Asuman Basalirwa, has called for a broad national dialogue to address Uganda’s longstanding governance challenges, arguing that meaningful engagement is needed to strengthen constitutionalism, the rule of law, and national unity.

Speaking during an appearance on NBS Television’s Frontline programme on Thursday, Basalirwa said Uganda’s political tensions cannot be resolved through partisan politics alone and require a comprehensive national conversation involving all stakeholders.

“There is something that needs to be discussed in terms of rule of law, constitutional governance and respect for each other,” Basalirwa said.

Basalirwa Advocates National Consensus

The Bugiri Municipality MP argued that several governance concerns that have shaped Uganda’s political landscape over the years remain unresolved and continue to fuel divisions within the country.

According to Basalirwa, previous attempts by religious leaders and civil society organizations to initiate national dialogue before the 2016 general elections highlighted issues that are still relevant today.

“A national consensus is beyond government and opposition. It is broader than the political class,” he said.

He emphasized that dialogue should involve a wide range of stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society groups, religious institutions, and ordinary citizens.

Concerns Over Political Climate

Basalirwa’s remarks come at a time of heightened political debate following the arrest and prosecution of several opposition figures.

Among the most prominent cases is that of former Kampala Lord Mayor and People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) leader Erias Lukwago, who is currently on remand after being charged with misprision of treason.

Prosecutors allege that Lukwago failed to report information relating to an alleged plot to overthrow the government involving opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and others. Lukwago has denied the allegations.

The case has attracted significant public attention and criticism from legal and human rights groups, including the Uganda Law Society, which has questioned the circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention.

Calls for Lawful Arrest Procedures

While stressing that all citizens are subject to the law, Basalirwa said security agencies must operate within the framework of the Constitution and follow established legal procedures.

“The manner of Lukwago’s arrest offended all the measures needed for an arrest,” he said.

His comments add to growing concerns from opposition leaders and civil society organizations regarding the conduct of law enforcement agencies in politically sensitive cases.

Questions Over Besigye Case

Basalirwa also commented on the ongoing legal proceedings involving veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.

He raised concerns about aspects of the case, including questions surrounding Besigye’s return from Kenya and immigration records linked to his movements.

Besigye remains on remand at Luzira Maximum Security Prison as court proceedings continue.

The case has generated widespread political and legal debate, with the defense team repeatedly challenging aspects of the prosecution’s case.

Dialogue Not a Sign of Weakness

Basalirwa urged political leaders and institutions to embrace dialogue as a constructive tool for resolving national disagreements rather than viewing it as a sign of weakness.

“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.

He argued that structured engagement could help address recurring disputes over governance, democratic processes, constitutional reforms, and political freedoms.

Growing Calls for Political Engagement

Basalirwa’s appeal adds to a growing chorus of voices from opposition parties, religious leaders, and civil society groups advocating for renewed national dialogue on Uganda’s future.

Supporters of such a process argue that open and inclusive discussions could help build consensus on key governance issues and reduce political tensions ahead of future electoral processes.

As debates over constitutional governance, rule of law, and political freedoms continue, calls for a national dialogue are increasingly becoming part of the broader conversation about Uganda’s democratic development and long-term stability.