Opposition leader Kizza Besigye is not waiting for the 2026 elections to make a move against President Museveni and the NRM government. Speaking to the people of Mbarara, Besigye emphasized the need to take action now to liberate Uganda from what he described as the captivity of the current government.

Besigye, a retired colonel and former personal doctor to President Museveni, is leading a nationwide consultation tour with his FDC Katonga faction. He urged party members to focus on uniting Ugandans and working towards removing the NRM government through peaceful means, without resorting to violence.

During his address in Mbarara, Besigye proposed a strategy where the people could collectively withhold sending food supplies to Kampala, causing unrest within the army and ultimately leading to President Museveni’s removal. He criticized the government for creating a culture of dependency and intimidation, urging the people to take action before the next elections in 2026.

Besigye also warned against the influence of what he referred to as “masqueraders” within the FDC party, particularly at the Najjanankumbi headquarters. He highlighted the differences in goals between his Katonga faction and other groups within the party.

The FDC Katonga Secretary General, Harold Kaija, acknowledged the challenges caused by internal divisions within the party but expressed confidence in Dr. Besigye’s leadership. Despite calls for a new political party, Kaija stated that the party structures remain intact and the members still believe in Besigye’s vision.

Besigye and the FDC Katonga leaders are currently on a tour of western Uganda, engaging with party members and supporters. Their next stops include Kabale, Rukungiri, and Bushenyi, as they continue to gather feedback and plan their next steps in the political landscape of Uganda.