Colonel Dr. Kizza Besigye, alongside Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, is set to embark on an extensive two-month national tour, rallying members around the prospect of establishing a distinct political party, separate from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) based in Najjanankumbi.
The breakaway faction, led by Besigye and Lukwago on Katonga Road, has officially announced plans to form a new political entity in preparation for the upcoming 2026 general elections.
During a gathering with district chairpersons representing various regions, Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, serving as the interim President of the faction, articulated the group’s intention to forge ahead with a new political party. Lukwago emphasized the need for members committed to challenging the current political landscape to embrace a fresh identity and actively contribute to building a renewed vision for Uganda.
Col Besigye, a founding member of the Reform Agenda that evolved into FDC, expressed his belief that the current state of the party is beyond salvage. Advocating for a fresh start with a new formation, he acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the viability of such an option.
In his address, Besigye conveyed optimism about the faction’s prospects, asserting, “Some of you don’t have faith that we can succeed, but I have full faith myself that we will succeed.”
Hon Ssemujju Nganda, known for exposing the NRM cash scandal leading to the FDC’s factional split, endorsed the creation of a new political entity. Anticipating resistance from those at Najjanankumbi, Nganda stated, “There are those who cannot let the FDC go. They would rather get buried with it, but please count me out. At times circumstances can force you to call yourself a different name.”
Amb. Wasswa Birigwa, the former Party Chairperson, echoed the sentiment that it was time for members to sever ties with the FDC, remarking, “The FDC that we used to know does not exist anymore, that is why this idea is coming up.”
Warren Kizza Besigye Kifefe, a prominent figure in Ugandan politics, who served as the president of the FDC and contested multiple presidential elections against incumbent Yoweri Museveni, provided historical context to the faction’s decision. Born in Rwakabengo, Rukungiri Municipality, Besigye has played various roles in Uganda’s political and military landscape.
Besigye’s educational journey, from Kinyasano Primary School to Makerere University, where he graduated with a degree in human medicine in 1980, was highlighted. His involvement as Yoweri Museveni’s personal physician during the insurgency and subsequent roles in the NRM/A administration were also mentioned.
Despite facing challenges and contesting election results in the past, Besigye’s commitment to political change remains evident. His marriage to Winnie Byanyima, a Ugandan Member of Parliament, in 1999, adds a personal dimension to his political journey.
As Besigye and Lukwago set out on their national tour, the vision of a new political party takes center stage, marking a significant chapter in Ugandan political evolution.
