Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) party officials are seeking a meeting between the US Secretary of State, Ms Hillary Rodham Clinton and the “major political parties’ leaders” in the country.

According to UPC vice president, Mr Joseph Bbosa, the request for the meeting is compelled by the need to discuss issues “affecting the country” besides security threats.

Addressing a party press conference in Kampala yesterday, Mr Bbosa said: “We want to discuss issues beyond security like the need to recognise human rights and proper governance because such a Uganda will be a better partner to the US than what it is right now. We hope to join other opposition parties to engage the Secretary of State of the US to discuss these matters.”

Ms Clinton, who is on a 10-day tour of six African nations, is expected in the country today. The focus of her visit is to strengthen US partnership with Africa on security, democracy and promotion of human rights. She will hold a meeting with President Museveni before flying to Nairobi on Saturday.

When contacted, Information minister Mary Karoro Okurut said she was not aware of any meeting between Ms Clinton and opposition leaders. She, however, said: “If they are trying to get an appointment, they should go ahead and get it, there is nothing wrong with that.”

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