Fred Bamwine, a commissioner in the Office of the President, has criticised political parties in Uganda for failing to provide solutions to national challenges, warning that they often resort to promoting hate speech and, at times, violence.
Speaking on NBS Barometer on Tuesday, Bamwine argued that the ineffectiveness of political parties has contributed to a rise in independent candidates winning public office.
"Political parties have failed over time. Instead of offering solutions, they promote hate speech and violence. That is why we are seeing more leaders being elected on individual merit rather than party affiliation," he said.
His comments come amid a heated debate following last week's controversial meeting between President Museveni and a group of opposition legislators at State House Entebbe.
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The delegation was led by Mawokota South MP Yusuf Nsibambi of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
Other attendees included Okot Bitek (Kioga County, FDC), Moses Kabusu (Kyamuswa County, People's Front for Freedom), Roland Ndyomugyenyi (Rukiga County), Fred Kayondo (Mukono South, Democratic Party), Richard Lumu (Mityana South, Democratic Party), and former Kawempe North MP Latif Ssebagala Ssengendo.
In an interview with NBS Television on Friday, Nsibambi said the engagement focused on national stability, peace, and reconciliation following a tense post-election period.
"The talks were about easing political tensions and promoting unity for development and stability," he said.
Nsibambi revealed that the delegation also raised concerns over political detainees, urging the President to consider pardoning hundreds of individuals imprisoned over political activities.
They also requested an independent investigation into the continued detention of Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, the Buganda Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and MP for Butambala County.
However, Nsibambi's decision to meet the President without consulting broader opposition leadership has drawn criticism from sections of the opposition, who argue that he acted unilaterally and undermined collective positions.
Defending his actions, Nsibambi said he acted in his capacity as an elected representative and in the national interest.
"No one sent me. I am an elected Member of Parliament, and I will engage with whoever I believe is necessary for the good of my constituents and the country," he said.
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