Dr. Kizza Besigye, one of the founders of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has acknowledged that some opposition candidates receive campaign funding from President Yoweri Museveni.
During a press conference held at his office along Katonga Road, Besigye expressed his belief that Museveni provides funds to opposition campaigns to create an impression that even opposition candidates can win elections.
He noted that political parties and candidates unable to raise sufficient funds often depend on government support, either officially or unofficially.
Besigye revealed that he had previously questioned the source of money flowing into the FDC but was told off by Augustine Ruzindana, the former FDC deputy secretary-general, that discussing the issue would harm the party’s reputation.
Besigye claimed that current Members of Parliament paid significant sums, around Shs500 million, during the last election to secure their seats.
Regarding the ongoing internal disputes within the FDC, Besigye expressed his surprise at constantly being associated with the party’s problems despite stepping aside from active party activities. He attributed the ongoing conflicts within the party to its failure to fight “state capture.”
“Part of the problem here is that there has been state capture of the politics through commercialization of politics amongst an impoverished society. So that all those who come into the political arena, can be controlled. This includes the patronage system, giving favours of jobs and money to the political elite,” he said.
Besigye advised the party leadership to temporarily suspend the internal electoral process until the internal disputes are adequately addressed.
Responding to accusations of receiving money from FDC party President Amuriat and Secretary-General Nandala Mafabi during the 2021 elections, Besigye admitted to holding the money for a period while seeking clarification on its source. Eventually, upon hearing reports that the funds might have originated from the state, he returned the money.
Explaining his absence from actively campaigning for Amuriat during the 2021 presidential elections, Besigye cited concerns about his advanced age and the risks associated with COVID-19. However, he emphasized his genuine support for Amuriat despite not physically appearing at his campaign rallies.
As the FDC grapples with internal divisions, Besigye’s statements shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by the party in navigating political dynamics and maintaining unity.