NUP Diaspora Convention calls for a re-think in USA-Uganda relations

The 3rd National Unity Platform Diaspora convention ended in Washington D.C. on Monday with calls for a re-think in the relations between the United States of America and Uganda. The 4-day convention was held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel, and was attended by delegates both from the diaspora and Uganda.

Among the delegates from Uganda were the NUP President, Robert Kyagulanyi, Mathias Mpuuga, Jolly Mugisha, Joel Ssenyonyi, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro and Benjamin Katana.

In a statement issued after the convention, the NUP/Diaspora Team Leader, Dr Daniel Kawuma, thanked all the delegates that showed up and participated in the convention.

“As the echoes of the National Unity Platform Diaspora Conference at the Crystal Gateway Marriott begin to settle, we find ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude for your presence, participation, and unwavering commitment to our shared cause,” the statement shared on the X platform read. “This exceptional event was made possible by the collective efforts of our fellow NUP diaspora members, whose generous donations paved the way for its success. The resounding impact of your contributions resonates deeply within us, reminding us of the unity that fuels our movement.” Dr Kawuma also thanked the DMV convention executive team, the NUP Diaspora leadership, Chapter leaders and committed individuals for their unwavering commitment.

The convention kicked off on Thursday with Convention Leadership Meetings, Empowering Leadership Training, and ended with a soccer game between Ugandan Delegates and the NUP Diaspora. This was followed by a BBQ.

Friday saw a March for Democracy, followed by a press conference addressed by the NUP Diaspora Team Leader and the NUP Spokesperson from Uganda. In the afternoon there was a joint meeting of Opposition Political Parties under the theme ‘Envisioning the Future of Uganda’. Thereafter was the opening ceremony and a presentation of papers.

Later that evening was a screening of the documentary ‘Bobi Wine: The People’s President’, followed by a ‘meet and greet’ cocktail.

Saturday started with a general session, followed by a panel discussion and a youth session. A presentation by Ugandan delegates wrapped up the day, and everyone then went for a boat cruise and dinner.

A 2km run started off proceedings on Sunday, which was followed by an inter-denomination Interdenominational Prayer. The Annual General Meeting as then held in the afternoon, and the convention closed later that evening after a banquet.

Dr Kawuma promised to provide a comprehensive report on the conference in the coming days.