By Lawrence Kooko
Kampala, Uganda — As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, the European Union (EU) delegation has met with the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP) to discuss key issues surrounding democracy, governance, and human rights.
Following the meeting held at the NUP offices in Kavule, Kampala, NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi described the discussion as “open, candid, and friendly.” He noted that while the EU delegation had initially sought to cover a broad range of topics—including election preparations and alternative policy proposals—the conversation ultimately focused on human rights, a matter he emphasized as central to their political movement.
Kyagulanyi expressed concern over what he described as the diplomatic community’s interactions with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni, stating that many Ugandans interpret such engagements as indirect support for oppression. He urged development partners to take a firm stand against human rights violations and called attention to the plight of political detainee Eddie Mutwe, whom he said is in dire need of specialized medical treatment.
EU Ambassador Jan Sadek, who led the delegation, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to fostering dialogue with all political parties, noting that similar meetings have been held with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and will continue with other parties.
He stressed that the upcoming elections are a crucial moment for Uganda’s democracy and encouraged all political players to embrace peaceful and fair electoral processes.
Sadek also expressed concern over reports of electoral violence, including incidents during the recent by-elections in Kawempe North, and the alleged security force interventions targeting NUP members. He emphasized that democratic elections require a level playing field for all contenders.
Beyond electoral matters, the EU delegation also engaged in discussions about Uganda’s economy, trade relations with Europe, environmental priorities, and governance. Sadek highlighted Uganda’s remarkable growth in exports to Europe and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting sustainable development initiatives in the country.
The meeting was attended by several key figures within the NUP leadership, including Leader of Opposition in Parliament and party spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi.
As Uganda moves toward the next election cycle, the EU has reiterated its appeal for all political forces to respect democratic values, ensure credible elections, and work toward a better future for all Ugandans—especially the country’s youthful population.
The meeting between EU officials and Bobi Wine’s NUP happened amidst reports of state persecution against opposition supporters and activists.
For example, currently, Bobi Wine’s bodyguards Edward Ssebuufu aka Eddie Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, Gaddafi Mugumya and Smart Wakabi, as well as up to 13 NUP members face robbery charges.
Recently, Eddie Mutwe told Bobi Wine of how he was injected with a strange drug, and other ways in which he suffered inside a torture chamber. (See Details Here and There).
Meanwhile, Bobi Wine recently wrote to Banyankore and Bakiga elders telling them to speak against the tribal actions and statements of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba before it is too late, while Bobi Wine’s wife Barbie Kyagulanyi used a keynote address at Rubaga Cathedral to condemn tribalism. (See Details Here and There).
For comments on this report, story tips or sponsored content, send us a Whatsapp message on +256 705 690 819 or E-mail us on pearltimesug@gmail.com).
Please Follow our Whatsapp Channel for More Stories Here
