Opposition MPs Seek Pardon for Political Prisoners in Museveni Meeting.
Story By Okello Patrick|NGUNAGULU.COM
MPs Talks Focus on Reconciliation
President Yoweri Museveni on Thursday met opposition Members of Parliament at State House Entebbe for reconciliation talks.
The closed-door meeting focused on national stability after Uganda’s tense January 2026 general elections.
Lawmakers described the engagement as part of broader efforts to cool political tensions nationwide.
Opposition Raises Political Prisoners Issue
Mawokota South MP Yusuf Nsibambi led the opposition delegation to the meeting.
He said the talks aimed to promote peace, unity, and development across the country.
Consequently, the MPs placed the issue of political prisoners at the top of the agenda.
They urged President Museveni to grant pardons to detainees arrested during post-election unrest.
Nsibambi said continued detentions risk deepening divisions and prolonging political instability.
Therefore, he argued that clemency would support reconciliation and national healing.
He added that dialogue remains necessary after a highly charged election season.
Demand for Inquiry Into Kivumbi Case
The MPs also raised concerns over the incarceration of Butambala County MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi.
Accordingly, they asked the President to order an independent and comprehensive inquiry into his case.
Nsibambi said authorities should rely on verified facts rather than politically motivated narratives.
Moreover, the MPs stressed that transparency would rebuild public confidence in state institutions.
They argued that unresolved high-profile cases continue to fuel suspicion and anger among citizens.
As a result, they warned that ignoring such concerns could undermine long-term stability.
Nsibambi Defends Engagement
However, Nsibambi defended his engagement with President Museveni amid criticism from some opposition groups.
He said no one mandated him to attend the meeting on behalf of the wider opposition.
“No one sent me to the opposition. I am an elected MP, and I will engage with whoever I deem necessary for the good of my constituents and country,” he said.
Instead, he insisted that he acted independently as an elected representative.
Therefore, he said he would engage any leader for the benefit of his constituents.
Nsibambi added that dialogue with political opponents remains vital for national cohesion.
Broad Opposition Representation
Other legislators present included Okot Bitek of FDC and former Kasese Municipality MP Robert Centenary.
Moses Kabusu of PFF, Roland Ndyomugyenyi, and former Kawempe North MP Latif Ssebagala also attended.
Additionally, Democratic Party MPs Fred Kayondo and Richard Lumu joined the meeting.
Calls for Inclusive Dialogue Continue
The meeting follows sustained calls for inclusive dialogue from civil society and religious leaders.
Regional actors have also urged calm after arrests, protests, and alleged rights abuses.
Although State House issued no statement, MPs described the talks as constructive.
Finally, they said continued engagement could help de-escalate tensions and promote reconciliation.
