KAMPALA — Former journalist Fortunate Batinti Ahimbisibwe has declared his candidacy for Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat as race for 2021 polls starts.
Ahimbisibwe who graduated in 2003 from Makerere University had seven-year successful stint at the state run New Vision before joining Ministry of Education and Sports where he served as a Communications Specialist under a World Bank funded project until 2015.
Ahimbisibwe who is very active on social media has recently spoken out against government excesses including corruption and human rights violations despite being an NRM supporter.
He told local media that believes that the old generation of NRM have contributed heavily to Uganda’s development, but he adds that it’s time for the ‘bush war mentality to end’ and the country returns to a democratic process without interference from the army or state inspired violence against civilian.
Known for close links within the NRM as well as People Power Movement, he has previously written in support of MP Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine but the former journalist is from a traditional NRM supporting family.
His father, Mr Francis Batinti is a Senior Presidential Advisor to President Museveni.
Ahimbisibwe said: “It’s no longer viable to sit on the side-lines and point out things that are going wrong. I have decided to become a participant rather than a spectator. An individual can make a difference if he/she is in a position of influence, in a place where decisions are made. As an MP, I will promote accountability of public funds, fight against corruption and lobby for services for my Constituency. As an MP, its important to negotiate for service delivery within your area.”
He added that, “I have worked in a Ugandan government ministry; I know how things work and what can be done to minimise leakage of public funds. I can be part of the solution. I am currently working for a Local Government body in London; I have seen what public service delivery means. I know what difference it makes if public funds are put to proper use.”
He told local media that he prefers to contest on NRM ticket because, “we might differ on policies and priorities, but I believe we agree on our principles. I am open minded; I believed an MPs job extends to all people in the community regardless of their political persuasion. I have friends everywhere, NRM, FDC, DP, People Power and ANT”. “I represent all these groups and I will be appealing to people from all sides to vote for me”
