Only dialogue can convince Museveni to step down, NRM MPs say

Two National Resistance Movement members of Parliament who are opposed to the lifting of the age limit from the Constitution want Parliament to negotiate with President Museveni for a peaceful transfer of power.

The MPs are Mr Alex Ruhunda (Fort Portal Municipality) Mr Henry Maurice Kibalya (Bugabula South)

 They say the country “is on trial and only dialogue” can end Mr Museveni's three decade rule.

"The president is so scared about what is happening here," Mr Ruhunda said.

Mr Ruhunda says the situation in the country which is characterized by tension and violence is not safe for Mr Museveni's exit.

"Even if I am the one [president], I must get assurance to leave under this situation," Mr Ruhunda said. "Can we as Parliament constitute a team to negotiate with the president about the transition in Uganda? We can do it."

The MP said that he “loves the President” whom he described as one of the greatest men this country [Uganda] has ever had.

He says the political dynamics in the country endanger the incumbent in case of a power shift.

Mr Kibalya cautioned Parliament against disregarding the views of the people on the age bill.

"We are representatives of the people out there and we must say exactly what they have asked us to say," he said. "Madam Speaker, you have seen the scuffle and the tension since this bill was tabled. If this bill was in the interest of the people, we would not go through this.”

Mr Kibalya said the Tenth Parliament can succeed by amending Article 102 (b) but it will never succeed in mending the broken hearts of the people of Uganda.

The Report from the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs also inserted tow clauses; one reinstating term limits, and another, pushing for a seven year political term for the president and MPs.

Debate on the bill is on-going with anticipation that it  might be adopted today.

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