Former FDC President Dr. Kizza Besigye (PHOTO /Courtesy)
KAMPALA, UGANDA — Dr. Kizza Besigye, a veteran politician and former presidential candidate, continues to be a dominant force in Uganda’s opposition politics. Despite his recent arrest and subsequent bail, Besigye remains a thorn in the flesh of the ruling government, led by President Yoweri Museveni.
“Besigye’s persistence and determination are a testament to his unwavering commitment to the people of Uganda,” said Asuman Bisiika, a columnist with Daily Monitor. “He has been a constant thorn in the side of the ruling government, and his influence on Uganda’s politics is undeniable.”
Besigye’s influence was evident during the recent protests against skyrocketing commodity prices, which saw him arrested and charged with inciting violence. However, his supporters argue that he was simply exercising his constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression.
“Besigye’s leadership of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party has made it the main opposition force in Uganda’s politics,” Bisiika noted. “He has been a constant critic of Museveni’s government, accusing it of corruption, nepotism, and human rights abuses. His impact on Uganda’s politics is undeniable, and his influence has inspired a new generation of politicians and activists.”
In the 2006 general elections, Besigye gave Museveni a run for his money, garnering 37% of the vote to Museveni’s 59%. His influence has also inspired a new generation of politicians and activists, who see him as a symbol of resistance against authoritarian rule.
“Despite his advanced age, Besigye remains a force to be reckoned with in Uganda’s politics,” Bisiika said. “His supporters see him as a champion of democracy and human rights, while his detractors view him as a troublemaker who refuses to accept defeat. One thing is clear, however: the Besigye factor will continue to shape Uganda’s politics for years to come.”
“Besigye’s legacy will be one of courage and resilience,” Bisiika added. “He has shown us that even in the face of adversity, we can make a difference and fight for what we believe in. His impact on Uganda’s political history will be felt for generations to come.”
Profile:
Dr. Kizza Besigye is a Ugandan politician and former presidential candidate. He was born on April 22, 1954, in Rubanda County, Rukungiri District. Besigye earned a degree in medicine from Makerere University and later specialized in human medicine.
Besigye’s political career began in the 1980s, when he served as a minister in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. However, he later fell out with Museveni and became a vocal critic of the government.
In 2001, Besigye founded the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, which has become the main opposition force in Uganda’s politics. He has contested for the presidency four times, in 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016, losing to Museveni each time.
Despite his advanced age, Besigye remains a popular figure in Ugandan politics, known for his charisma and oratory skills. His supporters see him as a champion of democracy and human rights, while his detractors view him as a troublemaker who refuses to accept defeat.
“Besigye’s profile is that of a courageous and resilient leader who has dedicated his life to fighting for democracy and human rights in Uganda,” Bisiika said. “His legacy will be remembered for generations to come.”
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