Politics 18 October 2026 Nile Post
Opposition Demands Release of Detainees, Return of Exiles Before National Dialogue
Opposition leaders are calling for the release of politically detained individuals and the unconditional return of exiled figures as prerequisites for engaging in the government's proposed national dialogue, citing a need to build trust and create a conducive environment. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/379558/opposition-leaders-demand-release-of-political-detainees-before-national-dialogue
Leaders from various opposition parties have issued a firm demand: the release of all individuals detained for political reasons and the unhindered return of exiled political actors must precede any meaningful national dialogue.
This stance was solidified during a two-day retreat in Jinja City, organized by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD). The meeting aimed to foster dialogue on Uganda’s political landscape, particularly in the wake of the 2026 General Elections.
Opposition figures argue that addressing these detentions and ensuring the safe return of exiled politicians are crucial confidence-building measures. They believe these actions are necessary to demonstrate the government’s genuine commitment to national reconciliation and to establish an environment conducive to open negotiations.
Aisha Kabanda, Deputy Secretary General of the National Unity Platform (NUP), emphasized that acknowledging past governmental errors and addressing opposition grievances is vital. She specifically called for the release of those incarcerated without valid cases as a fundamental step towards rebuilding trust.
Echoing these sentiments, Alice Alaso, Secretary General of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), highlighted the plight of prominent figures like former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Dr. Kizza Besigye, stating their continued detention undermines trust-building efforts.
However, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), represented by James Tweheyo, maintained that cases involving detained individuals should be resolved through the established judicial process, adhering strictly to the rule of law.
This divergence in opinion, between the opposition’s call for pre-dialogue confidence-building and the NRM’s insistence on due process, presents a significant hurdle in preparing for the proposed national dialogue. Further discussions will be needed to bridge this gap.