Opposition Stages Walkout Over Controversial UPDF, Political Parties Bills

Uganda’s opposition MPs have walked out of Parliament, boycotting debate on the contentious Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill 2025 and the Political Parties and Organisations Bill.

The move surprised many, coming just a day after Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi vowed to rally MPs to oppose the bills from within. But in a sharp U-turn, Ssenyonyi declared the debate futile, citing a ruling party caucus decision to pass the bills unchanged.

“We can’t be part of this. There is no room for debate,” Ssenyonyi told the House before leading the walkout.

The opposition accuses the National Resistance Movement of turning Parliament into a rubber stamp. Civil society groups have also voiced concern, warning the UPDF Bill risks militarising civilian life, while the Political Parties Bill could stifle dissent.