The forthcoming meeting is expected to put Ssegawa and Dr. Lugero’s competing documents under scrutiny as the Lands Ministry seeks to establish the lawful status of the disputed property and determine what, if any, compensation may be due.
This year’s event is being held under the theme “Empowering the IK Community of Karamoja through Coffee Farming to End Poverty.” The theme reflects the organizers’ broader ambition to use coffee farming as a tool for economic empowerment while drawing attention to communities facing poverty and limited livelihood opportunities.
“I call upon members who have challenges in the party and those with different views to attend the retreat to present all their views and challenges. Here we dont fear different views because we have the brains to resolve issues,” Mao said.
"I see people on social media saying that I promised them a transition and asking how it has not happened. Firstly, you don't believe in me. You don't believe in cooperation, yet at the same time you ask, 'Why are you not doing this?’ During the speakership race, you saw that NRM said that I'm not NRM. I think the speakership race answered that big question," Mao noted.
Kiirya said the continued reports of abductions, arbitrary detention, and public humiliation of citizens threaten the rule of law and erode public trust in state institutions.
“The agreement we have is fundamental. We have been faithful to our part of the agreement. That is the reason why the president invited me to try first,” Mao said.
“We have been complaining about how bad those fronted by other parties are. Today, we have decided to front our own, the holy one, to represent the opposition in the forthcoming speakership race. I implore all opposition members of Parliament to rally behind our candidate,” Ssenyonyi said.
Dumba further argued that the agreement was never approved by DP’s top organs, including the National Executive Committee, National Council, or party delegates, insisting that it remained a personal arrangement rather than a formal party pact.