EC Flags FDC Katonga Faction’s Proposed Party Over Name and Symbol Conflict

The Electoral Commission has raised concerns regarding the proposed registration of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), citing similarities with existing political parties.

The FDC Katonga faction submitted their proposal to the EC on August 27, 2024.

In a letter dated September 4, 2024, and authored by Mulekwah Russel the EC Secretary,  the Commission acknowledged receipt of the PFF’s request to reserve its name, colours, and symbol but noted potential issues with the proposed elements.

In the letter, Mulekwah explains to the promoters of  the name “People’s Front for Freedom” that it closely resembles the already registered “People Power Front (PPF),” which could lead to confusion among the public. The Commission also highlighted that the PFF’s choice of white and royal blue colours mirrors those used by the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), potentially misleading the public due to the similarity.

“The choice of white and royal blue as party colors, closely resemble that of the FDC and are likely to confuse the public. In respect of the names of the proposed political party, PFF closely resembles an already reserved political party People Power Front (PFF)”said Mulekwah

He further stated that their submission fell short of a full description of the proposed symbol, which was identified as a phone, along with the colours.

“Please do note that section 7(1) (c) of the political parties act requires that the application of registration for a political should be accompanied by  a full description of the identifying symbols, slogans and names ” he added

The Electoral Commission reminded the PFF of the need to adhere to the Political Parties and Organizations Act, 2005, and avoid conflicts with already registered symbols, names, and colours.

“Section 8 of the Political Parties and Organizations Act, 2005, prohibits the usage of colour and names of any registered political party or organization” he noted

PFF promoters have been advised to revise their submission to ensure compliance with the Act, avoiding confusion with existing political entities.

The FDC Katonga faction submitted their proposal to the EC on August 27, 2024. Led by prominent members including Ingrid Turinawe and Kenneth Opoka, the faction presented their new political vehicle, the “People’s Front for Freedom” (PFF).

The delegation filed an application to reserve the party’s name, along with the colors white and royal blue, and a mobile phone symbol as their party emblem. This submission is part of the group’s effort to formalize their political aspirations amid ongoing internal disputes within the FDC

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