Appearing on the NBS political program ‘People and Power’ yesterday, Joseph Othieno, a candidate for the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) presidency, painted a picture of the party’s historical journey and his role in shaping its direction as He praised the party’s founder, Milton Obote, for being a key figure in Uganda’s political history, describing him as the father of Uganda.”Obote is the father of this country. He was the first citizen of Uganda and remains the only president to be elected by the people. No one else has ever entered
the State House with such a mandate for the first time,” He remarked.
He emphasized Obote’s influence, particularly in leading the fight against Idi Amin in 1971, which set the stage for leaders like Yoweri Museveni to emerge. Othieno said, “Obote sought to reclaim Uganda from dictatorship.”
Reflecting on UPC’s broader role, he noted that the party is bigger than any individual and stressed the importance of prioritizing the country over political affiliations. He also addressed the need to resolve internal party conflicts and educate leaders like President Museveni, who once rejected election results.”If we stand for the emancipation of youth and women, and ensure that public services are accessible and free, there’s no reason UPC shouldn’t be the party of choice for the youth,” he added.
Acknowledging the current state of the party, Othieno mentioned that UPC enjoys strong support in the Lango region but reminded ugandans that the party once held significant influence in regions like Teso and Ankole. He also recalled the leadership transition after Dr. Obote’s death, highlighting the interim presidency of Mama Miria Obote.
Othieno shared personal experiences, including his 1987 arrest as a student by the National Resistance Army (NRA), suspecting that northern and eastern students at Makerere univetsity were being targeted. He vividly recalled his dramatic escape from Uganda to London that same year and how it shaped his early activism for UPC.
“I became a young activist in the UPC and among those in exile. I officially became the spokesperson for UPC in the diaspora and began writing. I made a small contribution to shaping the direction of the party,” Othieno said, underscoring his commitment to UPC.
As Othieno aims to lead UPC, the party’s future remains uncertain. Allegations of a merger with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) have surfaced, following the close relationship between current UPC president Jimmy Akena, son of Milton Obote, and President Museveni. It remains to be seen if UPC can regain the widespread influence it once had across the country.
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