President Museveni has called upon Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, and Dr Kizza Besigye to abandon the politics of hatred and division.
His remarks were made during a vigil held at the Parliament Buildings in Kampala to honour the late legislator Cecilia Ogwal.
Museveni encouraged the opposition leaders to follow the example of the late Cecilia Ogwal, who remained steadfast in her resistance against those who sought to undermine the government.
He commended her as a strong and principled leader who rejected politics driven by animosity, a sentiment echoed by Norbert Mao, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Jimmy Akena, the President of the Uganda People’s Congress.
Museveni highlighted that the politics of hatred persisted among a small faction within Uganda, whom he stated were well-known.
President Museveni rued a missed opportunity of working with deceased Dokolo legislator Cecilia Atim Ogwal.
The President said he is saddened not to have fully worked together with Ogwal because of “politics of fragmentation”.
The President advised MPs to always work together whenever there is an opportunity, especially on matters of national importance.
He noted that Ogwal was a good leader whose contribution was suppressed by the bad atmosphere created by the politics of hatred.
Meanwhile, the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has called upon leaders and Ugandans to distinguish between national interests, which should unite the nation, and partisan interests, which can be a source of disagreement.
In a statement, Among urged everyone present to celebrate the remarkable legacy of the fallen legislator Cecilia Ogwal.
She emphasized the need for joyful commemoration of her life, as Ogwal herself had cautioned against excessive mourning, believing that she would find her rightful place in heaven.
Cecilia Ogwal’s legacy was recognized as a unifying force, fostering peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among political parties.
The presence of the President was seen as a significant gesture to honor the late Cecilia Ogwal, who was described as a mother, mentor, colleague, and an inspiration to many.
Despite his busy schedule with engagements such as the Non-Aligned Movement and the G-77 plus China conferences, Among noted that President Museveni chose to personally pay his respects.
The Speaker emphasized the unique relationship between Cecilia Ogwal and President Museveni, stating that their affiliation with different political parties did not hinder their collaboration for the betterment of the nation.
Yesterday, Parliament paid tribute to Ogwal, with members from across the political spectrum speaking highly of her.
