KAMPALA – The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), a key Ugandan opposition party, is facing a severe internal crisis and allegations of financial misconduct, even as it directs its members to finance their own campaigns for the 2026 general elections.
The party, led by veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, recently instructed its leaders and aspiring candidates in Kisoro District to self-fund their campaigns, citing “acute financial constraints and a lack of funders.” This move was presented as a necessary measure to navigate the party’s limited resources.
However, this public declaration of austerity is now shrouded in controversy. Reliable reports indicate that a significant internal conflict has erupted between two of the party’s top officials—Hon. Ssemujju Nganda and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago—over a secret cash infusion of Shs 2 billion.
According to sources within the party, the substantial sum was covertly received from a top government official who was formerly a member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), the party from which many PFF founders originated.
The scandal reportedly ignited when Lord Mayor Lukwago discovered that Hon. Ssemujju Nganda had allegedly decided to withhold the funds for himself. It is alleged that Ssemujju kept quiet about the money and pocketed the entire amount, rather than allocating it for official party duties, as was ostensibly intended.
Sources close to Lukwago say he is “fuming” over the incident, accusing his colleague of misappropriating funds desperately needed for party operations and nationwide mobilization ahead of the crucial 2026 polls.
The allegations strike at the heart of the PFF’s credibility, creating a stark contrast between its public image of financial hardship and the private turmoil over a hidden multi-billion shilling transaction. The party has not yet issued an official statement addressing the claims.
This internal rift threatens to destabilize the opposition front, undermining its unity and public trust as it prepares to challenge the incumbent government in the upcoming elections.
