The sun was setting over the hills of Kampala, casting a golden glow over the city skyline. In the distance, the parliamentary building loomed large, a symbol of democracy in Uganda.

Recently, the ruling NRM party was accused of using its power to trigger disagreement among the opposition leadership.

Nicholas Opiyo, a human rights lawyer, says the future of democracy in Uganda depends on the strength of the opposition.

According to Opiyo, the opposition in Uganda should build a strong resilience to overcome the challenges in order to hold the government accountable and encourage free and fair engagements.

“Opposition parties are not just about winning elections. They are also about holding the government accountable, raising important issues, and offering alternative policies. In a democracy, everyone should have a voice, and opposition parties play a vital role in ensuring that this happens,” said Opiyo.

Col. (Rtd.) Dr. Kizza Besigye, the former FDC Presidential candidate, said the current woes in the once-leading opposition party are not limited to only the FDC.

“Before we talk about democracy, we have to practice it internally within our party, and then we can openly talk about the democracy of the country. Opposition parties are essential for democracy. They provide a check on the power of the ruling party; they hold the government accountable; and they offer alternative policies,” Besigye added.

Recently, the NRM has been accused of trying to dismantle the opposition parties by clandestinely causing internal disputes.