Nairobi, Kenya — The Democracy Union of Africa (DUA) Forum 2025 officially opened today at the Radisson Blu Hotel, bringing together more than 300 participants from over 25 center-right political parties across the continent.
The event was inaugurated by DUA Chairperson Louisa Atta-Agyemang and featured a keynote address by Lord Michael Ashcroft, Honorary Chairman of the International Democracy Union (IDU) and former Deputy Chairman of the UK Conservative Party.
Lord Ashcroft reflected on the unique challenges facing Africa’s center-right parties in a rapidly changing political landscape.
Co-hosted by Kenya’s African National Union (KANU) Party, led by Senator Gideon Moi, and the Democratic Party of Kenya, under former National Assembly Speaker Justin B. Muturi, the forum explores strategies to promote democracy, individual liberty, market-driven economies, and accountable governance. Support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) has helped shape this year’s theme: “Navigating Africa’s Strategic Position in a Multipolar World.”
Representing the Forum’s Ugandan delegation, Democratic Party of Uganda (FDC) President Hon. Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Deputy Secretary for Publicity Mulindwa Walid Lubega addressed the gathering, highlighting concerns over Uganda’s shrinking political space.
Amuriat spoke about the weaponization of the criminal justice system against political opponents and the plight of political prisoners, including Col. Kizza Besigye, while also criticizing the uneven playing field in the ongoing presidential campaigns.
FDC’s flag bearer, James Nathan Nandala Mafabi, is slated to participate in Thursday’s panel discussion on electoral experiences alongside other distinguished leaders.
Over the course of the four-day Forum, participants will engage in panel discussions, policy dialogues, and roundtables focused on democracy, trade, innovation, and Africa-Europe security cooperation.
Organizers anticipate concluding the event with a joint declaration outlining key strategies to strengthen ties between the two regions.
