What Major Kazoora’s Widow Said About Besigye that Has Sparked Outrage Countrywide

A comment made by Naome Kashariria, widow of the late Major John Kazoora and current MP for Rushenyi County, has ignited intense debate across Uganda.

Speaking at a memorial service at All Saints Cathedral last week, Kashariria remarked that President Yoweri Museveni "cannot forget those who fought with him in the bush," offering a surprising glimmer of hope for reconciliation with longtime political rival Dr Kizza Besigye.

Her statement, seen by some as a subtle olive branch on behalf of the President, quickly went viral.

“These people may have differences,” she said, “but when it comes to anything that touched those who went to the bush, His Excellency the President will not sit back.”

Social media erupted with mixed reactions. Supporters praised the sentiment, recalling instances where Museveni reconciled with former allies like Brigadier Eriya Kategaya, Amama Mbabazi, and Gen. Sejusa.

Others, however, dismissed the idea as naïve, arguing that Besigye poses a deeper political threat than those previously forgiven.

One X user, @KineneMukiibi, posted: “The late Kazoora must have skipped telling her certain things about Museveni concerning power greed.”

Another user asked pointedly: “Why should Besigye be extended forgiveness he hasn’t requested?”

Yet Museveni himself once tweeted in 2020, “We are not for vengeance... reconciliation and forgiveness is our doctrine.”

Whether Kashariria’s words reflect a broader political thaw or remain symbolic remains to be seen but they’ve clearly reignited public debate over Besigye’s place in Uganda’s political future