The Opposition Democratic Party are disconcerted by yesterday’s appointment of one of its members Nakiwala Kiyingi to cabinet by President Yoweri Museveni.
DP President Norbert Mao told reporters at the party offices in Kampala this morning that for the moment, Nakiwala is still a party member until a more informed decision is taken. But her appointment in the ruling government, Mao stressed, isn’t a representation of the opposition party.
The Party president revealed however, that he and other top party members were not entirely in the dark on this development.
“I can’t stand here and pretend that I didn’t know any thing about their conversation with Museveni,” said Mao.
“Nakiwala was approached by the Catholic Church, which was contacted by Museveni; I was briefed and asked for my opinion which I made clear.”
He added, “As DP we don’t believe in any member joining hands with government without a dialogue process that would enhance healing of the nation after the disputed 2016 general elections. I have left it to Nakiwala to search her heart and soul and decide according to her conscience; she doesn’t go to cabinet as a DP representative.”
Mao explained that as DP, they have not had the best experience with working with sitting governments and that they don’t intend to repeat their past mistakes.
“In the 70’s our hero, Ben Kiwanuka was released from prison by Idi Amin and was later appointed as a chief justice but his death was terrible; up to now we have never buried him.