The leadership of the Peoples Front for Freedom (PFF) in Ankole has launched collection of signatures across 13 districts.
The process started at the weekend with a meeting in Mbarara aimed at advancing the party's registration as a fully-fledged political entity.
During the initial gathering, leaders and members expressed optimism about the initiative while urging participants to pay close attention to party details during the registration process, particularly when engaging with the Electoral Commission.
The exercise commenced with training sessions for leaders and registrars from the respective districts, who were provided with registration forms accompanied by guidelines to ensure accuracy in capturing party information.
Denis Twahika, the interim spokesperson for PFF in Bushenyi, acknowledged the challenges posed by individuals attempting to infiltrate the signature collection process.
However, he assured that the party is prepared to combat any such efforts.
“The forms have serial numbers, and each district received specific S/Ns, making it difficult to duplicate the forms. We have also developed a fault detection mechanism, but our members must remain vigilant,” Twahika stated.
Stanly Katembeya, chairperson of PFF in Mbarara City and the regional PFF governor, highlighted the need for members to thoroughly understand essential party information, including its name, slogan, and symbol, to maintain accuracy and integrity throughout the registration process.
“Our members must familiarize themselves with the party name, abbreviation, slogan, symbol, and colors. This preparation will ensure they are not caught off guard when the Electoral Commission conducts a sample registration,” Katembeya emphasized.
Members spoken to by *Nile Post* expressed confidence in the signature collection exercise, believing it will culminate in successful registration for the party.
“I am confident we will secure the signatures; our people still have the spirit, and we will succeed in gathering the signatures,” said Elijah Bashaija, a member from the Bishop Stuart University chapter of PFF.
Sharon Ninsiima, a PFF member and leader, noted her involvement in the delegates' conference in Katonga during the consultations for party registration, indicating she is well-prepared for the task ahead.
The districts involved, including Mitooma, Bushenyi, Sheema, Kiruhura, Buhweju, and Mbarara City, were well-represented at the Mbarara meeting on Saturday, with hopes that each district will gather 50 signatures within one month.