By Kabuye Ronald
The Leader of Opposition also Nakawa West Member of Parliament Rt. Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi has unveiled a new Shadow Cabinet dominated by members of the National Unity Platform (NUP), with representatives from other opposition parties also securing strategic portfolios in a move aimed at strengthening oversight of government ministries and agencies.
The newly announced team brings together legislators from NUP, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Democratic Party (DP), People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), and Independents.
Hon. John Baptist Nambeshe appointed Commissioner of Parliament, Hon. Paul Mwiru was appointed Chief Whip, Hon. Nakwede Harriet was appointed Deputy Chief Opposition Whip and Shadow Minister for the Presidency, while Hon. Sewungu Gonzaga will oversee Defence and Veteran Affairs. Hon. Sheila Amaniyo takes charge of Information and Anti-Corruption, a portfolio expected to play a critical role in the opposition’s accountability agenda.
In the economic sector, Hon. Ssebina Gyaviira was named Shadow Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, while Hon. Karim Masaba will handle Cooperatives and Microfinance. Hon. Kasule Ismail was assigned Trade and Industry.
The health and education sectors were also given prominent figures, with Hon. Dr. Timothy Lusala Batuwa taking over the Health docket and Hon. Kaluya Andrew Kiiza appointed Shadow Minister for Education.
Hon. Abdullah Kiwanuka was named Shadow Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, while veteran politician Hon. Kaps Fungaroo will head the Human Rights portfolio. Hon. Alobo Joan Acom takes charge of Foreign Affairs.
The opposition also created a strong urban governance and youth representation team, appointing Hon. Zahara Luyirika to Kampala Capital City Authority and Hon. Robert Maseruka to Youth and Children Affairs.
Other notable appointments include Hon. Lukanga Moses Musanje for Energy and Minerals, Hon. Jamal Mukuve for Water and Environment, Hon. Kuteesa Patrick for Agriculture, and Hon. Zambali Bulasio for Sports.
NUP emerged with the lion’s share of positions, underlining its continued dominance within the opposition ranks in Parliament.
The Shadow Cabinet is expected to scrutinize government policies, provide alternative policy proposals, and hold ministers accountable on behalf of the opposition.
