DF Seeks To Use Parliament To Further Push For Reforms, Constitutionalism, And Reconciliation

In a move aimed at transforming governance, the Democratic Forum (DF) has laid out its strategic agenda for the nation, as party leaders kicked off a national campaign for Parliamentary and Local Government candidates from Masaka City’s Kimaanya-Kabonera division on November 10, 2025.

The DF’s focus is clear: to harness the power of Parliament in driving forward essential reforms, reinforcing constitutionalism, and fostering reconciliation within the sharply divided country.

DF president Mathias Mpuuga, who brought forth this ambitious agenda, underlined the party’s mission to encourage voters to back their candidates, highlighting their unwavering commitment to addressing the community’s pressing needs.

In anticipation of his official campaign launch to retain his Nyendo-Mukungwe constituency, Mpuuga stated, “I will not move round Nyendo-Mukungwe, but I will crisscross the entire country to canvas for support which will help our candidates to win in the interest of getting strong and voices of reason in Parliament.”

His dedication to extending his reach beyond local confines speaks to the imperative of cultivating strong leadership within the legislative framework.

The DF agenda is centered on pivotal issues, with Mpuuga clearly communicating the party’s vision for reform.

“We need voices in Parliament which will fight for the critical issues which were blocked like the electoral reforms, transition, and reconciliation,” he pointed out.

He expressed a pressing sense of urgency regarding these matters, indicating that their disregard has hindered progress within the opposition and led to perceptions of ineffectiveness. “Those are critical issues which have clogged the opposition to the extent of appearing brainless whereas we have brains,” he asserted, emphasizing the necessity for knowledgeable representatives.

Consequently, the party has identified three core issues that it aims to elevate in national discussions.

Mpuuga noted, “We have already tabled 8 bills around the Presidential Elections (amendment) bill, Constitutional amendment bill, the Parliamentary Amendment bill, and reduction of MPs’ numbers, amending the constitution of the Electoral Commission.”

He stressed the critical need for dialogue regarding the devolution of power and fair distribution of national resources, declaring that any candidate who overlooks these vital issues is unworthy of the electorate’s attention.

Expressing confidence in the party’s proposals, the DF leader declared, “Our agenda as DF is already in the public domain and I have not met any civil person faulting it.”

He acknowledged that while some detractors have cast doubts on the timing of these reforms, the party is set on progression, affirming, “So, we are starting with them in 2026, and by the end of that term, the country will have a new face of new ideas including the right approach to governance.”

The campaign gains further traction thanks to influential representatives like Dr. Abed Bwanika and Nakabuye Juliet Kakande, who serve as exemplars of the party’s commitment, as Mpuuga took a moment to praise the DF Members of Parliament for their significant contributions to the community.

“These two have been very able servants and very good representation of our people in Masaka City. They have helped to shape political discourse, and they have been able to shape the way MPs serve,” he noted.

Mpuuga urged constituents to take note of the impactful work of Bwanika and Kakande, indicating they are worthy models for others to aspire to.

The launch event for the DF campaign in Kimaanya-Kabonera captured considerable attention, with Mpuuga expressing enthusiasm, stating, “I am excited to begin this campaign today for our Parliamentary candidates to which I am a part, and Local Government candidates.”

Looking ahead, Mpuuga shared his personal campaign commencement date, announcing, “Personally, I will start my campaign on Friday [November 14] this week, at Kasana Playground…”

This declaration marks the kickoff of a focused effort by the DF to galvanize support and invigorate its base as they enter a pivotal phase in the political timeline.