Besigye’s Vision for a Museveni-Free Uganda
In a recent address during the unveiling of the National Unity Platform (NUP) new headquarters on November 3, 2023, former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president and four-time presidential candidate, Dr. Kizza Besigye, urged Ugandans to confront their fears and unite in order to remove the long-standing incumbent president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni from power.
Dr. Besigye highlighted that President Museveni’s prolonged stay in power can be attributed to several factors, with instilling fear in the Ugandan population being the foremost among them. He emphasized that overcoming this fear is crucial for any successful attempt to unseat Museveni.
Besigye asserted that President Museveni wields power through the use of firearms to intimidate the Ugandan populace. He acknowledged that fear is a natural response to such intimidation, but he firmly believes that it is essential to transcend this fear and bolster faith, emphasizing that faith can conquer fear.
Dr. Besigye went on to identify other significant factors contributing to Museveni’s continued rule, including the use of financial resources to corrupt political opponents, propagandist tactics, and sowing divisions among his adversaries. He emphasized that apathy and complacency among the opposition are the only true impediments to the struggle to unseat President Museveni, urging all those who seek change to shoulder their responsibilities.
Besigye did not mince words regarding individuals who abstain from political involvement, labeling them as “stupid.” He contended that everyone bears a responsibility in the political process, as policies and taxes, which have a direct impact on their lives, are shaped by political decisions. In his view, disregarding politics is a detrimental stance.
The former FDC president also made it abundantly clear that he does not intend to wait until the 2026 general elections to attempt to unseat Museveni. He stressed that those who are relying on him to bring about change should reconsider their approach and recognize that collective action is the key to success in challenging Museveni’s rule.
This statement by Dr. Kizza Besigye serves as a rallying cry for those who aspire to bring about political change in Uganda. It underscores the importance of addressing fear, division, and apathy while emphasizing the collective responsibility of all Ugandans in shaping their nation’s political landscape.
Factors Behind Museveni’s Prolonged Rule
| Factors | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Instilling Fear | Museveni’s use of firearms to intimidate the population |
| 2. Financial Corruptions | Utilizing financial resources to corrupt opponents |
| 3. Propaganda | Employment of propagandist tactics |
| 4. Sowing Division | Causing divisions among political adversaries |