Mugumya, a former aide to former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye, has previously been at the center of politically charged cases. His latest case comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over reports of enforced disappearances and prolonged detention without trial.
Ambassador Ssentongo reaffirmed Ugandan government’s commitment to strengthening cross-border tourism cooperation, noting that tourism is central to the country’s Ten-Fold Growth Strategy, which aims to grow the economy from US$50 billion to US$500 billion by 2040. He called for practical, time-bound solutions to trade barriers affecting tourism and regional business competitiveness.
“You cannot be a political party on the one side, but at the same time you don’t recognise the legitimacy of the government, which is leading the country. They call the government a junta. So now me, I’m part of a junta,” Mao said.
The leaders of these pressure groups have since accused the DP party President, Norbert Mao of being a traitor after he allegedly abandoned the true opposition principles of the party, especially when he decided to share the bed with the ruling NRM, something that revealed his self-seeking character.
“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.