KAMPALA — The Electoral Commission has approved the registration of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s Katonga-based faction, the People’s Freedom Front, marking a significant milestone after months of relentless efforts. This development follows the PFF’s split from the Forum for Democratic Change, a party with over 20 years of history.
Initially, the Electoral Commission rejected the PFF’s application due to concerns over its name and color scheme being too similar to the existing People Power Front and FDC. The Commission advised altering their branding to avoid voter confusion.
With the Electoral Commission’s approval, the PFF will now collect signatures to formalize its registration, crucial for securing its position ahead of the 2026 general elections. However, the Electoral Commission will scrutinize this process, verifying signatures to prevent forgeries.
The PFF emerged after a fallout with the FDC, prompted by concerns over “evil money” allegedly originating from the ruling NRM party to undermine party unity. Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago serves as interim president, supported by prominent FDC members Ssemuju Nganda and Munyagwa.
Many Ugandans expected the breakaway faction to join the leading opposition party, NUP. Instead, the formation of the PFF has raised eyebrows, with some analysts labeling it a power grab.
