Leaders from various political opposition parties in Uganda, including Dr. Kizza Besigye from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), General Mugisha Muntu from the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), and Winnie Kiiza, met at the National Unity Platform (NUP) Headquarters in Makerere-Kavule. The congregation was assembled for special prayers to mark the end of the year 2023. The event was captured by Francis Isano and the photographs were shared widely across social media, underlining the unity among opposition parties during this occasion. This gathering signifies the political collaboration and solidarity among opposition forces in Uganda as they unite in a spiritual context to reflect on the year that has passed and potentially strategize for the future.
President Museveni’s Investment in Youth Cooperative Societies
President Museveni invested Shs1.2b into 12 different savings and credit cooperative societies (Saccos) for ghetto youth in Kampala City, Wakiso, and Mukono districts. The initiative, focusing on productivity in agriculture, factories, services, and ICT, was launched after the 2021 general election, where the National Unity Platform (NUP) party led by Mr. Robert Kyagulanyi defeated the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the central region.
Conflict Between Mpuuga and Prime Minister Nabbanja
Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, criticized Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja for incompetence and covering government business. Mpuuga accused her of rarely attending plenary sessions, lacking knowledge, and avoiding pertinent issues. The disagreement between Mpuuga and Nabbanja has been escalating over issues such as missing opposition supporters and the conditions of government schools and health facilities.
Controversial Benefits for Former Speakers
The Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among handed over luxury vehicles to four former speakers, based on a law written in 2007 and amended in 2022. This move was criticized by the public and opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. The law grants retired speakers monetary and non-monetary benefits, including a monthly allowance equivalent to 60 percent of the monthly salary of a sitting Speaker, a four-wheel chauffeur-driven car, and other benefits.
Rep Walberg Supports Anti Homosexuality Act
Rep Tim Walberg delivered a speech in Uganda urging the nation to support its new Anti Homosexuality Act, which includes the death penalty. Walberg’s trip was sponsored by the secretive U.S. group behind the National Prayer Breakfast. The law provides penalties of lengthy prison sentences and even execution for aggravated homosexuality, and advocating for LGBTQ rights can mean years in prison. The U.S. has indicated that further economic consequences may follow if the law is not repealed.
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