October 15, 2024
Kampala, Uganda – The National Unity Platform (NUP) has firmly rejected the proposed Lumu Bill, emphasizing that its opposition to the legislation is not driven by political strategy but by its commitment to building a better future for Uganda. Speaking before the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee today, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya underscored the party’s united stance with other opposition groups in rejecting the Bill.
“We wish to emphasize that our strong opposition to this Bill is not in any way premised on any intention to strengthen or maintain our stand in the opposition as the NUP. In fact, the NUP works day and night to ensure that it takes power and builds a NEW UGANDA,” Rubongoya stated during his address.
The Lumu Bill, which has been the subject of intense debate within Uganda’s political sphere, has drawn widespread criticism from opposition parties. Many view the legislation as a move designed to entrench the current regime’s hold on power while undermining democratic processes and limiting civil liberties. Rubongoya made it clear that NUP’s rejection of the Bill is aligned with broader opposition efforts to safeguard Uganda’s democratic institutions.
“Our stand on this Bill is consistent with that of all other opposition parties. We reject it in its entirety,” he added.
Opposition Parties United in Rejection
The NUP, along with other opposition parties, sees the Lumu Bill as a direct threat to the political freedoms and human rights of Ugandans. The proposed legislation contains provisions that would increase the government’s ability to suppress dissent and limit the influence of opposition movements. Critics argue that the Bill is part of a broader trend of legislation aimed at curbing free speech, political mobilization, and peaceful assembly.
The NUP has been vocal in its fight against government policies that undermine democracy, and Rubongoya’s address today reaffirmed the party’s determination to stand up for the rights of Ugandans. He stressed that the party’s rejection of the Lumu Bill was based on principle and the party’s vision for a free and democratic Uganda.
NUP’s Vision for a “New Uganda”
As Rubongoya pointed out, the NUP is not simply positioning itself as a permanent opposition party. The party’s ultimate goal is to take power and lead Uganda toward a new era of governance, free from the corruption and authoritarianism that has marked the current regime.
“The NUP works day and night to ensure that it takes power and builds a New Uganda,” he reiterated, adding that the party remains committed to restoring the rule of law, protecting civil rights, and creating an inclusive and prosperous nation.
Building Momentum for Change
The NUP’s stance on the Lumu Bill comes at a time of growing political tension in Uganda. As the country moves closer to future elections, the opposition has been calling for greater transparency, electoral reforms, and an end to political repression. NUP leaders, including its President Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), have faced increasing pressure from government forces, including harassment, arrests, and the suppression of their political activities.
Despite these challenges, the NUP continues to build momentum for change, focusing on mobilizing grassroots support across the country. The rejection of the Lumu Bill is seen as a key moment in the opposition’s efforts to challenge the government’s attempts to consolidate power further.
NUP’s clear and unequivocal rejection of the Lumu Bill reinforces its commitment to protecting Uganda’s democratic institutions and ensuring a fair and free political environment for all Ugandans. As Rubongoya stated, the party’s opposition is based on principle, not political posturing, and its ultimate goal remains to lead Uganda into a brighter, more just future.
CMP Publications will continue to follow developments on the Lumu Bill and other key political issues affecting Uganda’s opposition and the broader fight for democracy in the country.