UPC urged government to reconsider the welfare of medical interns within the broader context of strengthening Uganda’s health system, arguing that realistic measures are needed to restore stability to the medical profession and reduce the frequency of industrial action.

The spokesperson said the new arrangement breaks with previous practice, under which government catered for these necessities and paid monthly internship allowances. She added that it also undermines the Collective Bargaining Agreement, which provided for enhanced allowances and better welfare for health workers.

Akena criticized the government for prioritizing other matters over child welfare and called for a holistic approach to development that includes safety, skills, and greater exposure for school-going children.

“According to World Health Organization, stunting has a lifelong consequence. Children who are stunted are more likely to experience failure to reach their physical potential,” Akena said.

Oyat criticised the outcomes of the January 2026 general elections and said the upcoming local council elections present another opportunity for citizens to elect leaders who will protect their rights and promote development.

“Any person who has carried him as the party leader shall be individually responsible for their harmful actions unless he or she has been given that mandate by the party leader’s conference, through the rightful process,” Oyat said.

“I am therefore using the powers as the President of the Uganda's People's Congress. I am going to be calling a National Council meeting this Saturday. We’re going to be discussing the status of the Ugandan People's Congress. We’re also going to be discussing the conduct of the last general election and UPC’s response to that,” Akena noted.

Oyat argued that the proposed law duplicates existing legislation, including the NGO Act, the Anti-Money Laundering Act, and the Political Parties and Organizations Act, while introducing sweeping provisions that could undermine citizens’ rights.