Kampala, Uganda – People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) was officially launched today at its first National Delegates’ Conference, held in Kampala.
The new political entity, which was recently gazetted by the Electoral Commission in May 2025, has now unveiled its constitution and national leadership structures, cementing its place as the latest challenger to National Resistance Movement (NRM) dominance.
Amid applause and chants of solidarity, delegates paid a moving tribute to Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, who was honoured as the chief guest of the occasion, despite being held in Luzira Prison on treason charges.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time thorn in the side of President Museveni’s regime, was acknowledged subsequently in the program as a foundational inspiration for the formation of PFF.
“Though our founding father is behind bars, his voice echoes louder than ever through our resolve today,” said Ibrahim Ssemujju, acting spokesperson of the party. “This launch is both a beginning and a continuation of his vision.”
His empty chair at the high table, draped in the national flag and PFF colours, was a powerful visual that left many in tears and defiance.
Initially, a splinter group from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), particularly the Najjanankumbi faction. PFF emerged out of growing frustration with internal wrangles and ideological stagnation within the traditional opposition.
The party leadership claims to embody a new wave of opposition activism, grounded in grassroots mobilisation, constitutional reform, and the liberation of political detainees.
“The regime fears the people. That’s why they jail our leaders and infiltrate our movements. But we are bigger than any one man or prison wall.”
During the conference, PFF delegates adopted a founding constitution, launched a youth and women’s league, and elected key leadership figures.
The leadership structure includes regional coordinators, spokespersons, and a national executive council, all promising a non-elitist, community-driven approach to political organising.
PFF officials used the event to call for the immediate release of political prisoners, including Dr. Besigye, Hajj Obeid Lutale, and all political prisoners.
They pledged to work alongside other opposition forces, including NUP, DP reformists, and civil society, to restore Uganda’s democratic values.
As the 2026 General Election looms, PFF is expected to begin nationwide mobilisation tours, establish district structures, and launch a policy agenda focused on justice, education, healthcare, and electoral reform.
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