Former interpreter for Paul Ssemogerere during the 1996 elections advises Dr. Kizza Besigye to abstain from utilizing FDC symbols, yet Salaamu Musumba opposes it
In a recent development, Salam Musumba, the former vice-chairperson of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has urged Patrick Amuriat to cease the theatrics and threats aimed at the FDC-Katonga faction.
Amuriat, who leads the FDC party headquartered in Najjanankumbi, Kampala, finds himself at odds with several party members who have shifted allegiance to the Katonga faction following a bitter fallout. This has led to Amuriat expressing discontent as the new faction embarks on national consultative meetings.
The FDC Katonga faction is actively seeking input from supporters regarding the formation of a new political entity. However, Amuriat accused his former mentor and leader, Besigye, of misappropriating FDC symbols and even hinted at potential legal action against him and his political allies.
Established on December 16, 2004, from the Reform Agenda, the FDC emerged as a result of the discontent among various members of the National Resistance Army liberation struggle and the subsequent Movement system of government. Despite being an MP, Amuriat was not prominently involved in the party’s inception.
Amuriat’s political journey saw him serving as an interpreter for Dr. Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere during the 1996 presidential election in Teso, following an unsuccessful bid in the Constituent Assembly elections in 1994. He later won the Kumi MP seat in 2001 and joined the Parliamentary Advocacy Forum (PAFO) chaired by Augustine Ruzindana.
In 2017, Amuriat capitalized on Besigye’s defiant approach to defeat Gen Mugisha Muntu and assume the FDC presidency. However, a recent fallout has soured the relationship between Amuriat and Besigye, prompting Amuriat to warn against Besigye’s use of FDC symbols and colors.
Despite Amuriat’s warnings, Musumba insists that Amuriat should allow the FDC-Katonga faction to conduct consultations with Ugandans without resorting to threats. She emphasizes that the faction is working within the confines of the law to establish a new party, asserting that they will soon unveil symbols, colors, anthems, slogans, and flags for the new entity.
Musumba also calls upon Amuriat to apologize to Ugandans for the discord within the party and urges him to respect the aspirations of those seeking change. She emphasizes the importance of allowing the people of Uganda to express their desires freely without interference.
