By BM
The Inter-Party Organization for Dialogue (IPOD) has formally acknowledged the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) intention to join its ranks but made it clear that official procedures must be followed before the party can become a signatory to its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
In a letter dated October 10, 2025, addressed to NUP’s Secretary General, IPOD expressed appreciation for the party’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and contribute to Uganda’s multiparty democratic development.
However, the organization emphasized that joining IPOD is a structured process governed by the provisions of its MoU.
Referring to Article 5.2.7, IPOD stated that any political party seeking membership must begin by submitting a formal written expression of interest to the Secretary to Council and that this step is required before the signing of the MoU can occur.
IPOD explained that the process of joining the organization should not be mistaken for simply signing the MoU.
It noted that a formal expression of interest is considered the first legal and procedural step, which would allow the IPOD Council to assess and approve the application.
The organization further clarified that, following the Council’s approval; arrangements would then be made for the new member to formally sign the MoU in accordance with its terms.
Accordingly, IPOD requested that NUP submit an official letter confirming its intent to participate in IPOD activities, along with a clear commitment to the organization’s principles, values, and objectives.
It also asked that the letter reflect NUP’s readiness to engage in IPOD’s dialogue processes, programs, and institutional frameworks.
In the same communication, Dr. Lawrence Sserwambala Kabagabe, the Executive Director of IPOD, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and peaceful, issue-based political engagement.
He said that NUP’s participation would help diversify IPOD and strengthen collective efforts towards building a more democratic and sustainable political environment in Uganda.
IPOD’s response appears to signal a cautious but open stance on expanding its membership one that seeks to maintain procedural integrity while promoting political inclusivity.
This development marks a notable shift in Uganda’s political dynamics.
NUP, which had long boycotted IPOD activities, reversed its stance following the June 2025 enactment of the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Act.
The amended law requires all registered parties to belong either to IPOD or to the Forum for Non-Represented Political Parties in order to qualify for state funding.
Under the new regulations, the Shs3.1 billion Political Parties Fund is now accessible only to IPOD members.
NUP, which had previously received around Shs800 million annually, faced the risk of losing access to this funding due to its continued absence from the platform, prompting its recent engagement with IPOD. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
