Opposition to Stay in House to Challenge Contentious UPDF Bill

The Opposition in Parliament has made a joint decision to participate in the upcoming parliamentary sitting, where two contentious bills will be debated: the Political Parties and Organizations Amendment Bill 2025 and the Uganda People's Defense Forces Amendment Bill 2025.

According to the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, the Opposition will use the platform of the House to raise the voices of Ugandans who are against the trial of civilians in the General Court Martial.

"We will use this platform to amplify the voices of Ugandans who are opposed to the trial of civilians in the General Court Martial," Ssenyonyi said.

The Opposition has also expressed concerns over the speed at which the two bills are being processed, arguing that key stakeholders have not been given sufficient time to provide their input.

"We are worried about the speed under which these bills are being processed without giving key stakeholders ample time to provide their input," Ssenyonyi emphasized.

The second reading of the bills is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, and the Opposition is determined to vigorously debate the provisions of the bills.

The outcome of the debate will likely have significant implications for the country's political and security landscape.

The Opposition's decision to participate in the parliamentary sitting and challenge the contentious bills demonstrates their commitment to representing the interests of Ugandans.

As the debate unfolds, the Opposition will likely push for a more inclusive and consultative process in the development of these critical pieces of legislation.