Besigye's people's govt is political comedy - EC
Apr 06, 2019
Two months ago, the former FDC president unveiled the People's Government and Assembly where he works as the president, deputised by Erias Lukwago
Following his loss to President Yoweri Museveni in the 2016 polls, Dr Kizza Besigye caused a stir when he organized his own investiture as President.
For his efforts, he had a stint at Luzira prison as he battled treason charges. Recently, Besigye spawned ripples when he named what he labelled "the people's government."
However, unlike the earlier farcical swearing-in as president, this time Government has been conspicuous with its inaction or decision to outrightly ignore the parallel structure dubbed "The People's Government."
And according to Electoral Commission's chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, Besigye's people's government is of no consequence since it has no legal effect.
In an interface with lawmakers sitting on the legal and parliamentary affairs yesterday, Byabakama described the People's Government as "a risible mockery" unworthy expending energy on.
Byabakama with EC's top brass in tow was at Parliament to discuss issues arising from the entity's policy statement for the financial year 2019/20.
Rwakoojo hands over documents to the chairperson of the legal committee of Parliament Jacob Oboth Oboth. Photo by Maria Wamala
"The question to ask is whether this so-called government has any legal force. If not, its best to ignore it since its mere political gimmickry," Byabakama said.
Byabakama was responding to a question by Ajuri County MP, Hamson Obua whether EC has any sanctions for individuals who after losing elections challenge the results, and upon failing to have them overturned declare parallel structures like the current ‘people's Government.'
Two months ago, Besigye unveiled the People's Government and Assembly where he works as the president. Besigye is deputised by Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago.
Also named in the government, which has attracted criticism from sections of the public were FDC vice president for Eastern Uganda, Ms Proscovia Salaamu Musumba as prime minister.
She is deputised by FDC spokesperson, Ibrahim Semujju Nganda (Kira Municipality).