Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-22 12:29:43
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction is currently contemplating the formation of a new political party, breaking away from its parent party, FDC. This potential move would officially separate the faction led by Patrick Amuriat, also known as the Najanankumbi faction. If this proposal is adopted, it would mark the second time a new party emerged from divisions within the once-largest opposition party. In 2019, former FDC president Rtd Gen, Gregory Mugisha Muntu formed the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) party after exiting FDC.
This proposal was part of a report presented by Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, summarizing internal developments within the party. Lukwago, who was selected as the interim party president, presented the report during a national council meeting held at Col Kizza Besigye’s office on Katonga road. During routine National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings, some members suggested the need for a new brand to continue the vision of building a new Uganda with fresh institutions.
Lukwago highlighted that a section of members in the Katonga faction expressed the view that the soul and vision of the party reside with them, and they should consider forming a new political entity to advance their cause. The report also mentioned calls for reconciliation from the Najanankumbi-based faction, along with the suspension of key party officials at a previous extraordinary meeting.
Apart from the proposal for a break-away party, the Lukwago report recommended continuing the fight for FDC and rescuing it from what they viewed as capture. It also suggested denouncing FDC-related activities and forming a pressure group akin to the Reform Agenda, which played a role in the formation of FDC under Besigye’s leadership in past elections.
During discussions with journalists, Lukwago explained the various options proposed by faction members, including the call for reconciliation by the Najanankumbi faction. Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Semujju rejected this call, emphasizing the goal of rescuing Uganda rather than a specific party branch. Besigye echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of grassroots engagement and public input in making a final decision.
The council decided to postpone the initial delegates’ conference to provide members with ample time to gather feedback and ideas from across the country before deciding on the best course of action. Besigye encouraged leaders to engage directly with the people to update them on the situation and gather their input for a more informed decision-making process.
In conclusion, the potential formation of a new political party by the FDC Katonga faction represents the latest development in the ongoing internal struggles within the party. The decision-making process is focused on ensuring that the ultimate goal of fighting for a better Uganda remains at the forefront, with input from all members being central to the decision-making process.
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