Renowned opposition figure Kizza Besigye has made it clear to the people of Mbarara that he does not intend to wait until the 2026 elections to challenge President Museveni and the ruling NRM government.
“I will not wait until 2026; let’s start now. Our goal is not merely to find a leader, but to reclaim our country, Uganda, which is held captive by Mr. Museveni and his family,” Besigye declared.
The retired colonel and former personal doctor of President Museveni, who has been leading the FDC Katonga faction, has embarked on a nationwide consultation tour to gauge public opinion on the formation of a new political party.
Addressing constituents in Mbarara, Besigye urged party members to initiate dialogues aimed at uniting Ugandans around the common goal of ousting the NRM government through peaceful means.
“If one day we collectively decide to halt the delivery of food supplies to Kampala, even the army, which Mr. Museveni believes is loyal to him, could turn against him due to hunger, leading to his removal from power. This would liberate us from the shackles of this regime,” he explained.
Besigye criticized what he described as the NRM regime’s tactic of reducing citizens to beggars, using handouts and intimidation tactics, including surveillance drones, to stifle dissent.
“We cannot afford to wait until 2026 while enduring this oppression,” he emphasized.
Besigye also cautioned against the influence of what he termed “masqueraders at Najjanankumbi,” suggesting that their motives differ from those of the Katonga faction.
“The Najja group has selfish interests, focused on self-preservation amidst the challenges created by this government,” Besigye remarked.
Dr. Besigye and his supporters parted ways with FDC President Patrick Amuriat and General Secretary Nandala Mafabi, relocating their base to Katonga Road in Nakasero and forming the ‘Katonga Faction.’
Buhweju County MP Francis Mwijukye expressed satisfaction with the receptiveness of the people of Mbarara to their message.
Harold Kaija, Secretary-General of FDC Katonga, acknowledged the challenges posed by the Najjanankumbi faction but affirmed their commitment to Dr. Besigye’s leadership.
While some party members advocate for the creation of a new political party, Kaija indicated that the final decision would be made after consulting with members nationwide.
Dr. Besigye and FDC Katonga leaders are currently touring western Uganda, with scheduled stops in Kabale, Rukungiri, and Bushenyi.
