Kampala, (UG):- A section of opposition political parties in Uganda Tuesday announced a holy Alliance formed in unison to spearhead a constructive dialogue and ensure a smooth political transition in the country ahead of the upcoming 2026 general elections.
The political parties under the new alliance include the National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED), Justice Forum (JEEMA), the Uganda Young Democrats (UYD) Alumni, Social Democratic Party (SDP), Democratic Party (DP) Bloc, Conservative Party (CP) and People’s Development Party (PDP).
Mr Joseph Kabuleta of NEED, Hon Asuman Basalirwa of JEEMA and Veteran DP Bloc member Mr Lubega Mukaaku, who spearheaded the alliance say the union is aimed at addressing critical issues in Uganda and fostering a constructive dialogue for a stable political transition as their main theme.
During a press conference held at Jevine Hotel in Kampala on Tuesday, Mr Kabuleta, the President of NEED Uganda said there’s a need for preparation in the post-Museveni era, emphasising that the Holy Alliance’s purpose extends beyond being an opposition group.
“The focus is on planning for a time when Mr. Museveni’s leadership comes to an end,” Mr Kabuleta stated, before underscoring the importance of economic empowerment and financial liberation as crucial when it comes to meaningful politics.
“We have to be prepared for what happens afterwards because we do not want to wake up one morning when is not there and we are not ready on how we want the country to be governed,” he added.
Mr Kabuleta also highlighted Uganda’s abundant resources and the need for inclusive economic policies to benefit all citizens. He further criticised the current system that allows a few individuals to control resources, saying it hinders economic development.
Kabuleta, however, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive economy where every citizen celebrates national gains. He also urged a shift from financial disempowerment to economic empowerment, ensuring a vibrant and participatory democracy.
On his part, JEEMA President, Mr Asuman Basalirwa highlighted the historical context of the struggle for political freedom in Uganda, dating back to pre-independence where he emphasised that the Holy Alliance is a response to the need for unity in addressing common challenges.
“It’s about commitment to principles such as reality, good governance, constitutionalism, rule of law, justice even as our national motto “For God and my Country” stipulates,” Basalira, who is also the Bugiri Municipality MP stated.
He added; “The Holy Alliance aims to spearhead a constructive dialogue for a stable political transition, calling for a national law on dialogue with clear parameters and consultative processes.”
Hon. Basalirwa further expressed concerns about emerging and unresolved issues, including the land question, federalism, the economy and electoral reforms. He proposed the immediate establishment of a constitutional review commission to provide a comprehensive platform for reconsidering constitutional amendments.
On the other hand, Mr Lubega Mukaaku reiterated the Holy Alliance’s commitment to a constructive dialogue for a stable political transition.
Hon. Lubega Mukaaku also emphasised the need for a national dialogue to redefine governance structures and formulate a new constitution for Uganda.
John Ken Lukyamuzi, who represented his party (Conservative Party – CP) called for an understanding of federalism and its science for a better post-Museveni era. “Uganda is a country with different, nations, languages, cultures, and heritage, you cannot come up and mess up a country that even the British feared and respected internationally,” he observed.
Despite having dissident political parties on board, much more prominent opposition parties like the National Unity Platform (NUP) and Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) did not subscribe to the alliance with no explanation given by any official.
In conclusion, all the participating Party presidents ratified that the “The Holy Alliance” stands ready to revisit unresolved issues and contribute to the creation of a new foundation for the country, ensuring a fair and inclusive system for all citizens during this critical time of transition.
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