ABSTRACT
For some, it is a unique and appropriate system suited to the particular circumstances and instability which have characterised Uganda's political history; others see it as no more than camouflage for a one-party state. Yoweri Museveni confirmed his commitment to national unity and a broad-based government that would include representatives of all districts, religions and former opposition groups. At the core of the constitution was debate about the role of political parties in Uganda. On the major issue which dominated both the Constituent Assembly elections and the 1996 elections - the role of political parties - Museveni and the National Resistance Movement gained a clear mandate with the important proviso that a national referendum be held in 1999 to decide the issue of movement versus multi-party politics. Although Museveni was expected to retain power, given the favourable economic and political conditions in the country, the margin of his victory was surprising.
