By Leonard Kamugisha Akida and Ritah Atukwatse,
KAMPALA
The Electoral Commission chairperson of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Hon. Micheal Kabaziguruka, has refuted widespread claims that the party’s presidential flag bearer position is reserved for veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Addressing the media on Thursday, Kabaziguruka clarified that the party has not endorsed any individual for the 2026 presidential race and emphasized that the flag bearer slot remains open to all eligible members.
“Dr. Besigye has not expressed interest in vying for the position of the party flag bearer,” Kabaziguruka said. “The position is open for all qualified party members to contest and meets required qualifications as outlined in the party guidelines.”
He explained that the requirements for the party’s presidential candidate are clearly outlined, and any member who qualifies will be given the expression of interest forms.
“As long as you meet the qualifications and we find you fit to hold the party flag, we will provide the forms. If more than one person expresses interest, we shall apply the same criteria to all,” he stated.
Additionally, Kabaziguruka dismissed the notion that the position was being held in trust for Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential contender and prominent opposition figure.
“So it is not true that this position is reserved for Dr. Besigye. We cannot do that because he has not expressed interest,” he added.
The clarification comes amid increasing speculation within opposition circles and the public regarding Besigye’s potential return to the presidential race in the upcoming 2026 general elections under the PFF banner.
Besigye, who has previously led four unsuccessful bids for the country’s top office, has remains incarcerated in Luzira Prison on charges of treason and unlawful possession of firearms which he allegedly committed in Nairobi, and in the Netherlands. However, before his detention , Besigye always publicly disapproved political plans ahead of the next general election.
During the media engagement, Kabaziguruka revealed that over 100 candidates from the Kampala Metropolitan area have so far expressed interest in contesting for various positions in the upcoming local government and parliamentary elections. He noted that additional nominations are ongoing at the party’s district offices across the country, and more aspirants are expected to join the race.
