Busiro East Member of Parliament Medard Lubega Sseggona has raised concerns over what he described as a growing "politics of suspicion" within Uganda's opposition, warning that internal mistrust and disregard for legal processes risk undermining democratic credibility.
Speaking during Morning Breeze on NBS Television, Sseggona reflected on patterns of leadership within opposition politics, arguing that intolerance toward dissent has persisted across different political eras.
He referenced the leadership period of veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye, noting that critics were often labelled infiltrators. According to Sseggona, similar dynamics have emerged under former National Unity Platform presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, where internal criticism is frequently met with suspicion rather than dialogue.
Sseggona also criticised the government's handling of security operations involving opposition figures, questioning why authorities did not rely on established legal procedures.
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He argued that if the state had legitimate grounds, it should have pursued lawful processes such as obtaining search warrants rather than actions that could shape negative public perceptions.
"What was so difficult about obtaining a search warrant and conducting a lawful search of Kyagulanyi's home? Instead, the public was led to believe that he is a wanted man," he said.
Despite criticising both the opposition and government, Sseggona reaffirmed his longstanding stance against the ruling administration led by President Yoweri Museveni, emphasising that his opposition has always been grounded in legality and constitutionalism.
His remarks come as Kyagulanyi recently announced he would temporarily leave Uganda to engage members of the diaspora and the international community on issues related to the January election outcome.
During his absence, Lina Zedriga Waru was appointed acting president of the National Unity Platform.
Kyagulanyi, who has rejected the election results, has accused the Electoral Commission of Uganda of manipulating the process--claims authorities say remain unsubstantiated.
Government officials have also dismissed allegations of political persecution. The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, said the state has no intention of arresting or harming the opposition leader.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja similarly urged Kyagulanyi to return home, while security agencies maintain that deployments around his residence are intended to prevent public disorder.
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