Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS and a United Nations Under-Secretary-General, has said that she is capable of leading Uganda.
Byanyima made the comments during an interview on NBS TV this morning while responding to suggestions that she could lead Uganda. The wife of four-time presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by some Ugandans.
“It’s good to hear people say that I can lead them. It’s a suggestion that they trust in me, and I thank them for that. I can also say that I am capable. What haven’t I been through?” she said.
However, Byanyima was quick to shift the focus from leadership ambitions to the pressing political and social issues facing Uganda.
“I don’t think this is the time to talk about who can be President. We should talk more about how to restore our democracy. I am not excited about being in the next election. What is there?” she questioned, highlighting her concerns about the current state of Uganda’s political landscape.
A long-time advocate for human rights, Byanyima vowed to continue fighting for justice and equality.
“As long as I am still alive, I will defend my human rights and those of other Ugandans,” Byanyima said.
She added, “Ugandans have been exhausted and are abused constantly. Violent language from the president himself, corruption taking away the resources they need, and huge impunity.”
While she refrains from indicating any immediate political aspirations, her statements resonate with a section of Ugandans seeking change.