In a resounding call to action, Mathias Mpuuga, the President of the Democratic Front (DF), has urged party members to passionately advocate for their three-issue agenda; reforms, transition, and reconciliation, unapologetically before, during, and after the upcoming 2026 elections.
This compelling appeal was made during his closing remarks at the DF national council on September 20, 2025, where over 125 members from across the nation, convened to adopt a series of resolutions aimed at redefining the party’s political strategy.
Mpuuga stressed the importance of the party’s agenda, stating that the upcoming election should not be treated lightly.
He cautioned that a lack of boldness in approaching critical issues could leave the nation in a state of inertia.
“So, comrades do not be afraid to promote our three-issue agenda. This election is going to come, it is going to go. It will leave the country in a state of inertia or even worse because we are so timid to make a step,” Mpuuga declared, urging his colleagues to confront the challenges ahead.
The national council saw members adopt 15 resolutions, most notably the decision not to field a presidential candidate.
This strategic tactic reflects the party’s stance on rejecting what they perceive to be a flawed electoral process that is predetermined to favor the incumbent leader in government. Highlights from Mpuuga’s address included strong critiques of the current political environment, where he called for fundamental legal reforms to engage all citizens in the governance conversation.
Mpuuga conveyed a profound sense of urgency for the DF to acknowledge and address the “elephant in the room,” referring to the failures of the opposition to effectively voice dissent and push for meaningful change.
“When I heard Mr.[Nobert] Mao [President of Democratic Party Serving as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in sitting Government] speaking about the people he is working with and General Museveni, I was like well, it is not good for a leader to keep their mouth open all the time,” he remarked, demonstrating the need for more straightforward politics and greater accountability among opposition leaders.
The DF president acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by party members in pursuit of true democracy and reform.
“I hope by these noble resolutions, we are here to avoid the biggest tragedy of life. We have gone through many mistakes [as political actors] which have cost us dear,” he stated, underscoring the lessons learned from previous political failures. He urged party members to reflect on their past and engage in truth while moving forward to propose real changes.
Mpuuga’s address highlighted the importance of strengthening party unity and organization. He called for regional conferences that would bring especially DF candidates close to deeply debate the party’s ideological founding so they can take it to the electorate and foster discussions around emergent issues.
“You need to activate an earlier resolution of regional conferences of the DF, especially candidates’ conferences, to support them and clarify our intentions,” he urged, underlining that local contexts are vital for the party’s national aspirations.
As he wrapped up his remarks, Mpuuga reassured members of the party’s bright future, emphasizing that their focus should remain on articulating a clear vision for the country as they head toward the elections.
“The peculiar challenges we face require leaders who are courageous and present. The opposition must advocate for vital reforms and demonstrate genuine leadership,” he asserted.
The gathering concluded on a hopeful note, with Mpuuga expressing confidence in the collective ability of DF members to galvanize support and promote their agenda as a pathway to genuine change.
