Kampala, Uganda — The President of the National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED) party, Joseph Kabuleta, has urged the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda to organize a presidential candidates’ debate immediately after the nomination process for the upcoming general election is concluded.
Kabuleta emphasized the importance of such a debate in promoting transparency and democratic engagement among voters.
He cited the 2016 presidential debate as a landmark moment, where all candidates were given equal opportunity to present their visions for the country. He contrasted this with the 2021 election, in which President Yoweri Museveni declined to participate, citing COVID-19 concerns.
“Ugandans deserve to hear from all candidates about their plans for the country. A debate is not just a formality—it’s a vital democratic tool,” Kabuleta said.
Party Expels Two Senior Officials Over Defection
In a related development, Kabuleta announced the expulsion of two senior party officials—Secretary General Charles Basajja and Spokesperson Moses Matovu—over allegations of defecting to rival political groups.
According to Kabuleta, Basajja has joined the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), which he described as aligned with the “Muhoozi project,” while Matovu has crossed over to the Democratic Party (DP).
“These expulsions are in accordance with Article 80 of the NEED party constitution, which states that any member who joins another political organization automatically ceases to be a member of NEED,” Kabuleta explained.
Betty Nyafono has been appointed acting Secretary General, pending confirmation by the National Delegates’ Conference. Kabuleta warned that any other executive member found forming unauthorized alliances with rival parties would face similar disciplinary action.
Kabuleta also unveiled a telephone number, which he said well-wishers could use to send him money for his campaigns.”
