We often blame ourselves for our loses and thank God for our gains, but that is not the case with Rtd. Col. Kizza Besigye.

Days after about 500 Forum For Democratic Change (FDC) members defected from the party in just a week’s time, the former FDC leader Dhas described the defection of FDC members as a relief to the party and also thanked God that it happened. Besigye stated this on Monday July, 27 morning while appearing on a local television talk show.

“For me, it’s quite a relief seeing political leaders leaving the party because when someone’s mind is not at par with what the party believes in, their continued stay then becomes problematic, thank God they left,” Besigye said.

Besigye also revealed that the defection was, therefore, necessary because the purposes of the leaders did not align with those of the party. This, he said would be a better way of avoiding distractions in the party.

“That is why there is freedom of association. You associate with those with whom you have the same goals. You associate with those with whom you have the same mission,” Besigye said.

Besigye also reasoned that perhaps those leaving the party were doing so because their preferred candidate Rtd. Maj. Gen Mugisha Muntu had lost the party presidential seat to Patrick Amuriat in 2017.

“Many people just come to FDC to get posts. They come only to gain popularity and earn a living. Once they get the bread, they leave the party,” Besigye said.

Asked whether he would bow to his supporters’ demand to have him on the ballot paper ahead of the forthcoming general elections, Besigye said he would reveal whether he will stand or not as President in the 2021 race very soon.

Members of parliament who have defected from the party include; Hon. Angelina Osegge, Hon. Elijah Okupa, Hon. Herbert Ariko, Hon. Reagan Ojumu, Hon. Ogenga Latigo, Hon.Nabilah Nagayi, Hon. Robert Centenary, Hon. Samuel Odonga Otto, Hon. Abdul Katuntu, Hon. Francis Gonahasa, Hon. Jack Wamanga Wamai and Hon.Winnie Kizza.