Dr. Kizza Besigye, a perennial contender for Uganda’s presidency, has exhorted the country’s populace to form grassroots coalitions aimed at wresting power from President Museveni before the 2026 general elections. Dr. Besigye made this appeal on April 3rd while addressing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) leaders and supporters from the Greater Mbarara region at a consultative meeting for the Katonga section, hosted at the Mbarara Catholic Social Center.
The participants deliberated on initiating a new political party and advocated for Dr. Besigye to spearhead the movement in the 2026 elections. This sentiment was also shared by students from Bishop Stuart University (BSU), who endorsed Dr. Besigye as their presidential candidate for the upcoming election.
“The endorsement for your candidacy in 2026 is unanimous among us, regardless of your political party. We are keen to see you lead,” proclaimed Arnold Ankunda, the Guild President of BSU. Stanley Katembeya, the FDC Chairperson for Mbarara City, confirmed the community’s support for Dr. Besigye’s potential fifth term.
“The Mbarara community is eager for you to stand in 2026, acknowledging the significant work you’ve done for them,” he stated.
Amon Twesigomwe, the FDC chairperson for Rwampara District, also insisted that Dr. Besigye’s leadership is critical for the new political formation and that his candidacy in the 2026 election is imperative.
Dr. Besigye responded by emphasizing the urgency for collective action, advocating for a peaceful transition of power well before the election year. “Let’s not fixate on 2026. The imperative for change is now, and it can be achieved through peaceful collective efforts,” he urged.
He dismissed the notion of using violence for political change, suggesting that unity and understanding among the populace could lead to a quick and peaceful shift in power.
“If we unite and decide to cease food supplies to Kampala next week, such action could force the authorities to respond to the people’s needs. Change hinges on unity and sacrifice,” he elaborated.
Dr. Besigye called upon Ugandans to join him in his mission to unseat President Museveni before his 70th birthday.
“As I approach my 68th birthday this April, I am mindful of the biblical reference to a lifespan of 70 years, or 80 for those who are strong. We should not wait for President Museveni, who is over 80 and still holds onto power,” he reflected.
He pointed out that President Museveni’s main fear is the unity of the people, which is the core strength of any struggle. “Our struggle transcends party affiliations; it is a united effort against subjugation. The immediate resistance faced by the United Forces of Change (UFC) from the state upon its formation is a testament to our unity,” he noted.
Dr. Besigye also addressed the internal discord within the National Unity Platform Party (NUP), calling for a focus on the collective fight rather than on internal conflicts.
“Our struggle is not for the pursuit of leadership; it is about restoring the rightful power and authority to the people of Uganda, which has been withheld since 1966,” he concluded.
The FDC’s Katonga section is persistently engaging with their supporters in Western Uganda, beginning with Greater Mbarara. Their schedule includes visits to Kabale District on April 4th, Rukungiri on April 5th, and Bushenyi on April 6th.
