The endorsement for the registration of the Katonga Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) faction as the new Peoples Freedom Front (PFF) party represents a notable intensification of the political competition with their parent organization, FDC, based in Najjanankumbi.
The establishment of PFF emerged from a significant rift within the FDC, triggered by corruption allegations against its leadership.
Concerns have been raised that the full registration of PFF could potentially damage FDC, as membership may become split between the two parties.
FDC currently holds the position of the second largest political party, following the newer National Unity Platform, which was established in 2020.
The PFF, guided by Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and several former senior members of the FDC, made the decision to separate from their original party and established what they called the “Katonga FDC faction,” with Erias Lukwago serving as the interim President.
Following unsuccessful attempts at reconciliation between the two groups, the Katonga group chose to create a new political party to advance their agenda. The successful registration of this new party marks a significant achievement, particularly in light of the many obstacles they encountered throughout the process.
The Electoral Commission initially denied their application, citing concerns that the name and colors closely resembled those of their previous party, FDC, and the People Power Front (PPF).
They contended that this similarity might lead to voter confusion.
With this clearance, PFF is now tasked with collecting the necessary signatures to complete their registration process, as a vital step to be recognized as a legitimate political entity.
This positive development coincides with the preparations of all political parties for the upcoming 2026 general elections.
A letter seen by the publication, from the Secretary of the EC, Leonard Mulekwa, dated October 2, 2024, urges all district authorities to provide any necessary support to the promoters of PFF to help them comply with legal requirements.
“This is to introduce to you promoters of PFF who wish to collect signatures in support of registration of their political party,” he noted.
He emphasized that Article 72 (1) of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda guarantees the right to establish political parties and other political organizations.
Section 7 of the Political Parties and Organisations Act, 2005, requires any promoter wishing to register a Political Party or Organisation to attach on their application a list of all the full names and addresses of at least fifty members of their Political Party of Organisation from each of at least two thirds (2/3) of all districts of Uganda.
The signatures will be subjected to a rigorous verification process to confirm their authenticity and thwart any attempts at forgery.
“Please take cognizant of the fact that the commission processes registration within six months in line with Section 7(11) of the Political Parties and Organisations Act,” he said.
Mulekwa indicated that the signature collection process is expected to be completed by January 3, 2025.
“This is, therefore, to request you render to the promoters of PFF any possible assistance to enable them fulfill the requirements of the law,” he noted.
