The recent announcement of Kizza Besigye’s intentions to form a new political party has raised eyebrows and prompted skepticism among Ugandans. Many believe that this move is nothing more than a ploy to further his own personal interests, rather than a genuine effort to bring about positive change in the country.
After the split between the Najjanankumbi and Katonga groups, Besigye and his followers found themselves politically homeless. With the official authority and resources belonging to the Najjanankumbi group, it became clear that Besigye needed an alternative means to sustain his political ambitions. This has led to suspicions that his new party is merely a money-making platform, disguised as a platform for change.
Besigye’s ego and refusal to engage in dialogue with Amuriat and his group have hindered any hopes of reuniting with the main opposition party. His attempts to unite with other parties, such as the NUP, have been met with resistance due to fears that his experience and influence would make him a threat to existing leaders. This lack of cooperation and desire for personal control raises doubts about Besigye’s true intentions.
Instead of prioritizing unity and dialogue to form a strong opposition force capable of pressuring the ruling party in the upcoming 2026 elections, Besigye has opted for consultations to establish a new party. This displays not only a selfish approach but also a lack of political foresight. Genuine opposition leaders would understand the need for a consolidated front, rather than fragmenting efforts and diluting the potential for change.
Besigye has been in opposition leadership for over two decades but has failed to bring anything new to the table. His promises of change have fallen flat, resulting in disillusioned supporters who have turned to alternative parties like the NUP. It will be an arduous task for Besigye to convince voters that he can deliver on his promises, especially considering his history of empty rhetoric.
Nonetheless, he hopes that his party will secure a few seats in parliament, providing him with access to IPOD funds and attracting potential donors. This may grant his party temporary political relevance, but it will hardly put any significant pressure on the ruling party or threaten Museveni’s chances of victory.
Unfortunately, this trend of self-enrichment within opposition parties is not unique to Besigye. Many opposition leaders in Uganda have shown themselves to be opportunistic individuals who use their platforms to deceive supporters and accumulate personal wealth. Numerous corruption scandals have tainted their reputations, leaving voters questioning whether these leaders are any different from the ruling party they claim to oppose. The lavish lifestyles they lead, despite a lack of visible income sources, further erode the trust placed in them.
As the 2026 election season approaches, Ugandans must remain vigilant and wary of these opposition leaders disguised as agents of change. It is time for citizens to recognize that they have been duped for too long. “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” and it is clear that these self-seeking individuals cannot be trusted to deliver on their promises. True change will only come when Ugandans refuse to be swayed by empty rhetoric and demand integrity and accountability from their leaders.
