Besigye speaks out on Archbishop Lwanga, UJCC proposal to suspend elections, extend Museveni term to 2023

Veteran opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye has opposed a proposal by Catholic Archbishop of Kampala Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga and the Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC) to suspend 2021 elections and extend incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni’s term of office by three years to 2023.

The proposal is so far being rejected across the political divide.

Government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo has called its proponents ‘time wasters.’

Now, Besigye says “something terribly wrong would have happened to our religious leaders.”

Besigye reminded Lwanga and his colleagues at UJCC the decision for the postponement of the election would require a referendum and extending Museveni’s term of office would need constitutional amendments.

“They would be calling for a postponement of an election three weeks away and for Museveni to keep in office beyond May 12, 2020, which needs a REFERENDUM! Article 260 of the Constitution requires amendment of Article 105 (Term of Office of President) to be approved by a referendum,” stated Besigye.

“Election can be postponed through a President declaring a State of Emergency. However, after May 12, 2021, the Speaker of Parliament would act as President.”

Lwanga and UJCC seem aware of the dynamics of how their proposals can be effected.

“Article 259 of the Constitution allows Parliament to amend laws. We are asking Parliament to sit down and amend the constitution to allow President Museveni to continue ruling and guiding the country during the period of three year postponement of elections,” said Lwanga in a statement.