Until the 2005 referendum, the 1995 constitution had required the suspension of political parties while the Movement organization was in governance.
Other political parties could technically exist but were prohibited from sponsoring candidates and holding meetings.
Registered political parties are now allowed to operate openly and contest elections.
However, sometimes they find hardship in practicing their rights by the party in power.
As of September 2023, the Uganda Electoral Commission lists 26 registered political parties on its website.