SIMPSON M
The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) leaders and members from Rukungiri district have called on Rukungiri Generals — Gen. Jim Muhwezi and Gen. Henry Tumukunde — to put aside their political affiliations and advocate for the release of Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, their comrade from the bush war era.
The appeal was made by the former Member of Parliament for Rukungiri Municipality and PFF Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Hon. Mugume Roland Kaginda, during a press conference held on 6th June 2025 at Rozera Gardens in Rukungiri Municipality.
Hon. Kaginda expressed deep concern over the increasing repression by the Ugandan government and urged the public to rise in defense of justice and demand the immediate release of Besigye, who he said is currently suffering in prison.
He strongly condemned the act and called for the immediate release of both Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Abed Rutale.
Kaginda further emphasized that the regime’s actions — including Besigye’s abduction — are part of a wider pattern of terror and repression. He called upon leaders, especially those who fought alongside Col. Besigye in the bush, including Gen. Jim Muhwezi and Gen. Henry Tumukunde, to transcend political divisions and speak out for Besigye’s release.
In addition, Hon. Kaginda announced his interest in recontesting for the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat under the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), now officially registered as a political party.
He called on party members to unite, show commitment, and work towards the growth and success of the party.
Kaginda affirmed that he is ready to recontest if entrusted and chosen by the party leadership. However, he noted that if not selected, he is willing to support whoever is chosen, emphasizing that this would not cause any division within the party.
Alosius Mugarura, the Chairperson of the People’s Front for Freedom in Rukungiri district, expressed joy over the party’s official registration, stating that the leadership is now prepared to assume roles that will give Ugandans a reason to believe in democracy.
He stated that this new journey with the PFF comes with lessons from past mistakes, which must not be repeated, and a renewed commitment to fight for a better Uganda.
Mugarura announced a peaceful demonstration scheduled for Wednesday, 11th June 2025, across the country to demand the release of Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and Abed Rutale.
He described the day as one to reclaim their district’s dignity, calling for peaceful elections and declaring that change must begin in Rukungiri district.
Mugarura also urged Ugandans to endorse Dr. Besigye for the 2026 presidency, saying the PFF has resolved that he will be their presidential candidate — whether he remains in prison or not.
Hon. Betty Muzanira, the former Woman MP for Rukungiri district, congratulated all Ugandans under the PFF for the official registration and certification of their party.
She urged Ugandans to pray and fight for their freedom — a cause that she said begins by electing good and capable leaders who serve the interests of the people, not their own.
