Former Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has said he would rather remain in exile than return to Uganda and risk arrest and detention, arguing that staying outside the country allows him to continue contributing to political activities.Speaking in an interview with journalist Baker Batte, Ssemujju said imprisonment may carry symbolic importance but can limit a leader’s ability to mobilise, communicate and participate in political work.“If I go to prison like Honourable Erias Lukwago and Dr Kizza Besigye, will I still be making a contribution? Yes, there is symbolic value, but you cannot do what you would do when you are free,” he said.
Ssemujju, who left Uganda in June amid political tensions, said his decision was personal and not a call for other opposition leaders to leave the country.He said he would rather continue speaking out from outside Uganda than risk being detained and taken to what he described as a “basement (torture chamber)” before being sent to prisons such as Kitalya or Luzira.
The former MP insisted that political work does not stop because a leader is outside the country, saying research, communication and mobilisation can still continue from abroad.His remarks have sparked debate, with some arguing leaders should remain on the ground during difficult times, while others believe staying safe enables them to continue their activism.(For adverts, inquiries news, send us a message on +211929244599)