Centenary
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice chairperson for Western Uganda, Robert Centenary, has publicly challenged claims that he attended a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni at State House, offering a Shs10 million reward to anyone who can produce photographic evidence placing him at the meeting.
Centenary, a former Member of Parliament for Kasese, made the bold offer during an interview on NBS Television on Wednesday evening, dismissing reports that he was among opposition figures who recently met President Museveni.
“I will give you UGX 10 million if you bring a picture of me attending the meeting at State House,” Centenary said, insisting that he was not part of the delegation.
His remarks follow widespread discussion after it emerged that several opposition politicians, including Mawokota South MP Yusuf Nsibambi, met President Museveni at State House. The meeting sparked controversy within opposition circles, with critics questioning the motive and timing of the engagement, coming shortly after the January 15 general elections.
Reports had suggested that some opposition figures attended the meeting but declined to take photographs with the President, allegedly for fear of political backlash. Centenary’s name was among those mentioned in speculation, which he has now strongly refuted.
Nsibambi has since openly acknowledged the meeting and gone further to recognize Museveni’s re-election, remarks that triggered sharp reactions from opposition supporters and leaders.
Centenary’s challenge appears aimed at distancing himself and the FDC leadership from perceptions of secret engagements with the ruling party, at a time when the opposition is under pressure to explain internal divisions and post-election strategy.
As of now, no photographic evidence has surfaced linking Centenary to the State House meeting.
