The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) faction based in Najjanankumbi has expressed their frustration over being overlooked in the Besigye case.
It is important to highlight that leading figures from other opposition parties issued a joint statement today condemning the recent abduction, detention, and trial of Dr. Kizza Besigye and Obeid Kamulegeya Lutale in the general court martial.
In their statement, they listed six reasons for asserting that the charges against the two should be dismissed and called for their immediate release. The politicians further stated that Besigye and Lutale should not be moved to civilian courts, as those courts do not have the jurisdiction to handle the alleged offenses. This action was taken during a press engagement at Parliament yesterday.
FDC posted on X, citing images from the meeting, expressing that they feel isolated in the fight for freedom. Among those present were prominent figures such as ANT president Mugisha Muntu, lord mayor Erias Lukwago, NUP president Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, Hon. Betty Nambooze, Doreen Nyanjura, Ken Lukyanuzi, and Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi. Nonetheless, FDC declared their intention to proceed independently.
In response, Leader of Opposition Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi disputed their claims, stating that he had attempted to reach FDC president Patrick Amuriat Oboi on two occasions, but the calls were not returned.
“Honourable, I think you’re not being honest surely. I called you twice myself last week, and you hang up each time.
You then sent me a message saying you couldn’t talk at the time.
I replied your message firstly by introducing myself (just incase you don’t have my number), and requested you to kindly get back to me when you free-up, but you did not get back to me Sir!,” replied Ssenyonyi in regards to FDC’s claims of being sidelined.
Honourable, I think you're not being honest surely. I called you twice myself last week, and you hang up each time.
You then sent me a message saying you couldn't talk at the time.
I replied your message firstly by introducing myself (just incase you don't have my number), and… https://t.co/HWkeJHjHzU
— Joel Ssenyonyi (@JoelSsenyonyi) December 9, 2024
Historically, it is worth noting that FDC split into two factions, one moving to Katonga, comprising influential figures like Lukwago, Besigye, Birigwa, Ssemujju Nganda, and others.
The faction that remained in Najjanankumbi, which houses the party headquarters, includes Amuriat and Hon. Nandala Mafabi. The two factions have been feuding over their respective legitimacy, making it understandable that the Najjanankumbi wing was not included in the meeting.
