Peter Okot, the Whip of the Democratic Party (DP), has shed light on simmering tensions within Uganda’s parliamentary opposition. His statements reveal significant concerns about the exclusion of DP from crucial decisions within the opposition bloc.
DP has decided to petition the Parliament Speaker to streamline engagement rules in Parliament, aiming for greater inclusivity in opposition decision-making processes.
Okot emphasized that despite the appearance of collaboration among opposition parties, DP often faces marginalization. Internal divisions threaten to weaken the collective actions of the opposition despite efforts to present a united front.
“We can pretend or smile with each other for the cameras, but deep inside, our working relationship is not smooth,” Okot lamented.
He pointed out instances where key decisions, such as shadow cabinet appointments, are made without meaningful consultation with DP and other opposition parties. This exclusionary approach results in divided loyalty among party members appointed to the shadow cabinet.
Okot also highlighted concerns regarding the role of the Leader of the Opposition, suggesting that decisions made may not always align with DP’s views, leading to internal discord.
In response to these challenges, Okot called for greater consultation and inclusivity within the opposition, advocating for transparency in decision-making processes.
Echoing Okot’s sentiments, DP General Secretary Gerald Silanda stressed the urgent need for solidarity within the opposition. Silanda emphasized the diversity and contributions of all opposition parties, urging for a shift in how the opposition engages in Parliament.
Veteran politician Rabi Gershom Shizom Wambede attributed DP’s woes to its ties with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). He argued that factions aligned with the ruling party cannot genuinely claim to be part of the opposition, suggesting that it is justified for the leading opposition party to isolate such factions.
Gershom highlighted the ruling party’s practice of appointing opposition members to cabinet positions without consulting their parties, suggesting a similar trend in shadow cabinet appointments.
He called for deliberate efforts to level the political landscape, emphasizing the need to counteract divisions perpetuated by the ruling party for the benefit of all opposition parties.
These revelations underscore the complexities and challenges within Uganda’s political landscape, particularly concerning the relationship between opposition parties and the ruling
