The Katonga faction of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has announced plans to establish a new political party, following extensive consultations with stakeholders across Uganda. The official unveiling of this new political entity is scheduled for August 19, according to Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda.
“The name of the party will be chosen by the leaders, but we will first consult our members for their input,” said Mr. Ssemujju. “If they suggest a better name, we will adopt it.”
Mr. Ssemujju, who has been a Member of Parliament under the FDC banner since 2016, emphasized that the new political party is not intended to create conflict with other opposition groups. “We are not forming this group to fight other Opposition political parties,” he stated. “As for Najjanankumbi [the FDC headquarters], we are not in conflict with them at the moment. However, if they choose to fight us, they can continue.”
Highlighting the broader goals of opposition parties in Uganda, Mr. Ssemujju noted, “Our common cause as Opposition parties is to challenge Mr. Museveni’s regime, not to fight each other.” He added that while it is beneficial for opposition parties to have diverse ideologies, unity in the broader struggle is crucial. “Some may prefer federalism, others a republican system, or changes in district administration. It’s natural for different parties to have different visions and colors.”
The delegate conference for the new party is set to take place on August 19 at a location that is yet to be disclosed. Francis Mwijukye, the MP for Buhweju Constituency and a key participant in the upcoming conference, stated, “The primary goal of this new political party is to combat human rights abuses and dictatorship in Uganda.”
The move comes amid a shifting landscape in Uganda’s opposition politics, with the Katonga faction seeking to carve out its own space while maintaining the broader opposition’s focus on challenging the current government.