Uganda’s political opposition faces mounting challenges, with defections to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and warnings of shrinking democratic space signaling a shift in the country’s political landscape.
According to Hon. Dan Atwijukire Kimosho, Member of Parliament for Kazo Constituency, the opposition is weakening, risking further defections to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
“The opposition has a long road ahead if it hopes to regain the influence it once held,” Hon. Kimosho stated.
He highlighted internal challenges within the National Unity Platform (NUP), noting that the party has faced difficulties in the 11th Parliament and during the nomination process.
The Kazo Constituency MP expressed his expectation that a few remaining opposition members will defect to the NRM, a trend already reflected in the fact that about 40% of the current government comprises former opposition figures.”
“From what I observe, the opposition is reaching its weakest point,” he noted.
Hon. Kimosho made these remarks during the local broadcast today, 24th March 2026.
His remarks follow a meeting on 23rd March 2026, where a group of 30 independent MPs-elect, led by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the NRM Secretary General at the party’s Kyandondo headquarters, expressing their willingness to work alongside the ruling party in the upcoming 12th Parliament.
Francis Mwijukye, MP for Buhweju County, raised concerns over shrinking democratic space, citing restrictions on Dr. Kizza Besigye and tensions in urban leadership positions.
“What is happening is an attempt to go back to a one-party state. Dr. Besigye, who has been mobilizing Kampala, is confined,” he revealed.
Mwijukye emphasized that public demand for change remains strong, highlighting a growing disconnect between perceived political stability and underlying sentiment among citizens.
As Uganda heads into the 12th Parliament, the political scene is undergoing notable shifts. While defections to the ruling NRM highlight changes within the opposition, concerns over democratic space and citizen engagement remain.
Observers suggest that the coming months will reveal how opposition parties adapt and how political dynamics evolve, reflecting both continuity and change in Uganda’s multiparty system.
