Rukungiri, Uganda – People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) officially launched its regional activities in Rukungiri District on Monday, declaring an unwavering mission to unite Uganda’s fragmented opposition ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The event, held in the heart of a district known for its rich political history and defiant voices, drew hundreds of energized supporters, opposition figures, and local leaders. Party flags fluttered under grey skies as chants of “Power to the people!” echoed across the venue.
“We chose Rukungiri not by accident, but by design. This land has produced some of the strongest voices for political change, and that spirit lives on in the PFF,” said Roland Kaginda vice chairman Western Region.
Rukungiri is no ordinary launchpad. It’s the birthplace of Dr. Kizza Besigye, one of Uganda’s most iconic opposition figures, and has historically been a battleground for anti-regime resistance.
PFF’s choice to kick-start its mobilization here sends a clear signal that the movement is rooted in struggle and committed to challenging the status quo from the ground up.
Speaker after speaker at the rally emphasized the need for opposition unity, blasting past divisions that have allowed the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to dominate electoral politics for nearly four decades.
“No single party can defeat the dictatorship alone. We must put ego aside, come together under one front, and speak with one voice,” said Alosyious Mugarura, chairman PFF Rukungiri district.
The PFF leadership hinted at ongoing conversations with other major opposition parties, including NUP, and promised to work toward forming a single joint candidate against President Yoweri Museveni in 2026.
Residents in Rukungiri, many of whom have grown weary of recycled political promises, said they were cautiously optimistic.
“I’ve voted for the opposition all my life. But what we need is not just slogans, we want coordination, unity, and courage,” said Sarah Kabugho, a retired teacher attending the launch.
Young people also turned up in large numbers, draped in blue and white, waving hand-drawn placards showing their party symbol of a phone.
Unlike other opposition events often marred by a heavy security presence, this launch remained peaceful. Police patrols were stationed nearby but did not interfere, a development organizer cautiously welcomed.
The PFF team announced that regional launches will continue across the country, including upcoming events in Kampala, Masaka, and Mbale.
The party is also preparing to unveil its official leadership structure at its Delegates Conference in July, alongside a policy agenda that prioritizes electoral reforms, economic justice, and transitional governance.
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