Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has said he made a decision to officially join the Forum for Democratic Change is because he wanted a “home” in politics.
Lukwago made the remarks in his maiden speech immediately after he was unveiled as a new member of FDC at party national headquarters in Najjanankumbi, Kampala on Tuesday.
A self-proclaimed Democratic Party (DP) member, Lukwago was today unveiled amidst chants and applause as the newest member of the second largest opposition party in Uganda.
Primarily, Lukwago said he joined FDC to cement his bond with FDC leaders who have championed the struggle to bring and build a free and just society, but also expressed pleasure that he has finally found a home .
He said during his impeachment as Kampala Mayor in 2013, he was ridiculed by some politicians as “a homeless street boy” something that has haunted him for so long. He said everyone has a choice and he has made a choice because he needed a home.
Lukwago also took a swipe at critics saying he is not joining FDC for a meal card as alleged in the media.
“I have taken this decision to join FDC as a seasoned politician. I am at peace with my conscious, my heart and my soul. I am not here to scheme for a meal as other politicians are doing” He said. He however said he will keep the DP life membersip card as a Soveniour for the respect he has for the party.
He said he has been working closely with FDC since it is inception but he is convinced it’s time to formally ally with change-seeking forces in the liberation struggle. He said he is not joining FDC to scheme for material gains as it has been allegedly pointed out in media recently.
Lukwago praised FDC as a party that has outstandingly fought for justice, constitutionalism and equality for Ugandans. He also praised FDC’s culture of ensuring internal democracy within the party and said FDC is a step ahead with an ideology and a firm foundation for democracy in Uganda.
He appealed colleagues to stay steadfast in “forging principled and formidable synergies with other political formations to liberate Uganda” He said he is convinced the prevailing political environment requires a common front and FDC cannot do it alone without other opposition members.
“In sickness and health, in teargas and humiliation, we shall always trudge together” Lukwago said.
Former FDC President Dr. Kiiza Besiye welcomed Lukwago who he described as a “blood brother” and said he has always been angry but he has a reason to smile today.
“Lukwago has always demonstrated a real brother to me and we are united by blood. I must thank FDC leaders and member for giving my brother a befitting welcome to Najjanankumbi” Besigye said.
