Uganda’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has presented new regulations before Parliament aimed at boosting cooperation, transparency, and accountability among political parties. The Political Parties and Organisations (Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue) Regulations, 2025, are designed to give the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) a clear legal framework and stronger operational foundation.
While presenting the new statutory instrument, Minister Mao said the regulations are meant to promote structured dialogue and mutual respect among political players. He noted that the goal is to make sure every registered political party in Uganda has a voice in discussions that shape governance and national development. “These regulations provide a clear legal foundation for IPOD’s operations and ensure that every registered political party has a seat and a voice at the table,” Mao told Parliament.
The new rules make participation in IPOD activities a key responsibility for all member political parties. According to Mao, parties will be required to take part in at least two-thirds of IPOD’s annual meetings and activities — such as summits, council meetings, and business committee sessions. Failure to participate could affect a party’s eligibility for government funding under the Political Parties and Organisations Act. Mao stressed that, “Participation in dialogue is not just a right — it’s a responsibility. No political party should isolate itself from national conversations that shape governance, peace, and development.”
The regulations also define three major organs of IPOD: the Summit, the Council, and the Secretariat. The Summit, made up of party leaders and secretaries general, will be the highest decision-making body. The Council of Secretaries General will handle coordination and implementation of IPOD programs, while the Secretariat will manage daily activities. Leadership of these organs will rotate every two years among member parties in alphabetical order, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity.
A Code of Conduct has also been introduced, setting clear standards for how political parties should behave within IPOD. The code encourages democracy, gender equality, human rights, good governance, and peaceful political competition. It also promotes cooperation among parties beyond political and ideological divisions. Mao said these standards would help build trust and strengthen political institutions across the country.
To make sure IPOD achieves real results, the regulations provide for the creation of specialized committees — including Research and Policy, Conflict Resolution and Mediation, and Implementation committees. These will help address challenges, follow up on decisions, and ensure accountability through a bi-annual audit of IPOD’s work.
“This is not just about meetings and statements,” Mao emphasized. “It is about measurable results, dialogue that leads to reforms, cooperation that leads to peace, and engagement that strengthens our democracy.”
With these new regulations, Uganda takes another step toward building a more inclusive, transparent, and peaceful political environment — one where dialogue replaces confrontation and all parties work together for the good of the nation.
