'I will not be detracted by moles within UPC'

By Moses Mulondo & Dennis Onyango

Uganda People’s Congress president Olara Otunnu has vowed that he would not accept distraction from UPC members who are opposing him.

Addressing a news conference in Kampala, Otunnu said there are moles within UPC who are doing NRM work.

“Whereas the door is widen open for all party members to come and present their concerns, we have drawn a line between those who genuinely support the party cause and those who are executing President Museveni’s projects while wearing UPC colours,” Otunnu said.

The former UN diplomat said as part of the scheme to kill the opposition, there are people who have been compromised to betray their parties.

He said he is committed to internal democracy within UPC and would tolerate dissenting views from UPC members who are genuinely supporting the party.

“The door of the UPC president is open to all. Internal disagreements are tolerated in UPC. That is why there are people who are opposed to me but I have recommended them to be included in the opposition shadow cabinet,” Otunnu explained.

Dismissing the allegation that he is dictatorial, Otunnu said all the key decisions in UPC are made after discussions in various UPC organs like the National Council.  

A number of UPC MPs and members led by Lira Municipality MP have since last year been undertaking measures aimed at overthrowing Otunnu blaming him for being incompetent.