MUGABE R
The territorial police of Rukungiri District, in collaboration with the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), on Thursday, February 20, 2025, sealed off the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) offices as the party transitions into the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), effectively aborting a planned emergency meeting.
According to FDC/PFF members, the security operation began at 3 a.m., with officers removing portraits of Dr. Kiiza Besigye from the streets before camping at the party offices in the morning. Security forces reportedly divided into two groups, with one stationed at the premises and the other patrolling the surrounding areas.
Mr. Aloysius Mugarura, the FDC Chairperson leading the transition to PFF, expressed disappointment over the security intervention, stating that the meeting was meant to counsel party members following the detention of Dr. Kiiza Besigye and to discuss his welfare and that of his colleagues.
Caleb Musimenta, the FDC/PFF office administrator in Rukungiri, criticized the police action, arguing that their meeting of 55 members posed no security threat and was unfairly disrupted. He noted that despite the police blockade, the party offices remained operational, though members were unable to seek assistance from relevant authorities.
Innocent Rubarondesa, the FDC/PFF Secretary for Mobilization, Information, and Publicity, condemned the presence of armed personnel at civilian political offices. He vowed that the party would organize more actions in protest of Dr. Besigye’s detention, calling for mass mobilization to challenge the government.
Bernard Musinguzi, the FDC/PFF Chairperson for Buyanja Town Council and LC3 flag bearer, described the security operation as political suppression. He questioned why National Resistance Movement (NRM) offices continued to operate without interference and urged the public to make decisive choices regarding the current regime.
Meanwhile, Rukungiri District Police Commander (DPC) Afande Appolo Kyangungu denied having prior knowledge of the operation.
