Xavier Radio Ug News 24 7
By Jumah Kakomo
The opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has urged Ugandans to use the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent as a time for reflection, sacrifice, forgiveness, reconciliation, and renewal of faith.
Addressing the party’s weekly press briefing on Wednesday at its headquarters in Kampala, UPC spokesperson Arach Oyat Sharon encouraged citizens to embrace the spiritual significance of the two religious observances. She called on those with the means to support vulnerable families, noting that providing food and other basic necessities would enable those in need to fast with dignity during the sacred period.
Arach also appealed to the government to reflect in good faith during the holy season and consider releasing individuals the party describes as political prisoners. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, and charity, while Lent is a Christian period of prayer and reflection in preparation for Easter.
Meanwhile, the UPC reiterated its demand that the forthcoming Local Council One (LC1) and Local Council Two (LC2) elections be conducted by secret ballot. The call follows an announcement by the Ministry of Local Government that the long-awaited LC1 and LC2 elections are scheduled for March 2026.
The party’s Head of Media and Communications, Faizo Muzeyi, raised concerns about the voting method expected to be used. He said the UPC favors a secret ballot system instead of the lining-up method, where voters stand behind their preferred candidates.
Muzeyi also questioned previous government explanations for delays in organizing the elections, particularly claims of limited funding. He argued that the postponements may instead reflect a lack of political will.
He further maintained that within Uganda’s multiparty political system—where campaigning and voter choice are fundamental—a secret ballot would better protect voters’ freedom of choice and promote social harmony.
