Besigye Rejects Use of Violence, Emphasizes Unity for Change

Opposition bigwig Kiiza Besigye has stated that using violence, like guns, to overthrow Uganda’s ruling NRM government is no longer necessary or effective.

He believes that violence has caused problems for the country. He points out that President Museveni, who came to power using violence in 1986, has shown that such means don’t solve issues like dictatorship.

Besigye, who was part of the NRA rebellion that brought Museveni to power, acknowledges their past use of violence but regrets it. He apologizes for the violent methods they employed, although he explains that fighting was the chosen method back then.

“Truly regret it and apologize for the violent engagements that we went through. But it was a form of engagement. It was the how. Because when you are going to fight, you unite to fight” he said.

Besigye spoke at a conference honoring Dr. Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere, emphasizing the need for unity in diversity among opposition parties to achieve common goals. He believes that even with a united opposition, defeating Museveni through elections might not be possible.

“If we still think that we will unite, this violent hold on power, using the means prescribed by those violent, I think will be doing ourselves a disservice,” he said.

Besigye however agrees with the idea of pursuing the legacy of Dr. Ssemogerere, who advocated for unity among political parties. However, he said the challenge lies in dealing with political elites who hinder unity.

“It is only common sense, it is logical that to pursue those common goods, we must have a collective effort. So unity in our diversity is not just reasonable, it’s unavoidable if we are to achieve the common good,” said Besigye.

Mp Muwanga Kivumbi, a National Unity Platform representative, also explained the need for unity and suggested that even President Museveni requires unity to address the country’s challenges.

Dr. Paul Ssemogerere, known for advocating for multipart rule and unity among different parties, passed away in 2022 at the age of 90.

In summary, Besigye suggests that violence is no longer the solution, emphasizing unity among opposition parties as a way to achieve common goals and bring positive change to Uganda.