The former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi declared his intentions to contest for presidency in the general elections 2016. In a 5 minute-long YouTube Video, Mbabazi outlines fighting corruption, ensuring good governance among the 8 areas to tackle when voted as President.Making the long-awaited announcement for those who want change in the country’s governance, the ex-Premier said he was offering himself to contest in NRM party primaries as flag bearer and later on the 2016 national elections. Mbabazi calls on his fellow NRM party members to rally behind him as he plans to embark on his country wide campaigns to seek support.

Meanwhile Police has issued a statement to stop planned demonstrations around the city that are allegedly organized by Mbabazi’s supporters.

Reactions

A cross section of MPS  have reacted to the declaration by the former prime minister Amama Mbabazi, with some supporting while others saying that he cannot win over president Yoweri Museveni. The vice chairman of the NRM Parliamentary Caucus also Eastern Uganda Youth MP Peter Ogwang says the former Prime Minister should forget the issue of winning NRM presidential Candidature during the primaries. Ogwang says NRM MPs still stand on their Kyankwanzi resolution of sole candidature being president Museveni.

Kyadondo North MP Robert Sebunya says this is total democracy whoever wins will be declared in broad day light. Butambala county MP Muhammad Kivumbi says this shows a sign that most people in most political parties are tired and want a change.

Sheema woman MP Rose Nyakikongoro told reporters at Parliament that it was laughable to see Mbabazi declaring his bid on social media which cannot be accessed by all people but above all, this platform doesn’t allow asking questions.

Odonga Otto, Arua county Member of Parliament, says as a person, he cannot support Mbabazi and will mobilize people to gang up against him in the North accusing him of alleged misappropriation of PRDP funds worth 1.2billion shillings  which he used to buy his Mercedes Benz while still Prime Minister.

Ayivu county MP Bernad Atiku welcomed the declaration saying it gives NRM the challenge on handling internal democracy particularly on those top positions in the party. He says that it also breaks the silence the former Premier kept since his sacking from government.

Full Video of the bid announcement