ENTEBBE — Leader of the Opposition (LOP) Joel Ssenyonyi on Thursday gathered opposition Members of Parliament in Entebbe for a high-stakes, two-day induction retreat to establish key legislative priorities for the 12th Parliament.
The retreat brings together new and veteran lawmakers to harmonize their approach to oversight, legislation, and public representation for the 2026–2031 parliamentary term.
Key Highlights of the Strategic Roadmap:
Focus Areas: –
– Strengthening accountability, curbing systemic corruption, defending the rule of law, and improving public service delivery.
– Economic Agenda: Formulating realistic policy alternatives to address Uganda’s high cost of living and rising public debt.
– Cross-Party Unity: Full attendance from Democratic Party (DP) MPs alongside National Unity Platform (NUP) and independent members.
Internal Accountability Raised
Despite the call for unity, internal administrative questions came to the fore. Bukoto Central MP Richard Sebamala (DP) and Shadow Minister for Finance Hon. Lubowa Ssebina Gyaviira (NUP, Nyendo-Mukungwe) both sought clarity on the management of opposition resources.
The lawmakers raised specific queries regarding the allocation, tracking, and utilization of internal budget funds meant to support committee work and oversight operations. While the queries went unanswered during the open session, caucus members characterized the exchange as standard internal scrutiny aimed at ensuring operational efficiency.
Addressing the gathering, Ssenyonyi emphasized that ideological differences must not hinder parliamentary performance.
“We belong to different political parties, but we are united by a shared commitment to constitutionalism, accountability, justice, and good governance,” Ssenyonyi noted, calling for rigorous preparation ahead of house debates.
The Entebbe retreat continues on Friday with technical sessions focused on equipping MPs to effectively hold the executive branch accountable.
The post DP, NUP Lawmakers Flock to Entebbe as Ssenyonyi Unveils 5-Year Opposition Roadmap appeared first on Watchdog Uganda.