Uganda's opposition rallies behind Besigye in a build up to the polls

Supporters of Kizza Besigye, a strong contender in Uganda’s presidential elections from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, thronged the streets of the city of Kampala to cheer on the man they hope will bring change to the country.

Eight days before the election, his supporters intensified his campaign, in a bid to sway more voters to his side.

“I want Dr Kizza Besigye because Museveni’s government has lost the grip for which the Ugandans have supported him in 1986,” said 30-year-old Simon Dumba.

Yoweri Museveni, who has been in office since 1986 is widely expected to be elected to another five year term. This will be his fifth. But staunch FDC supporters remain optimistic that Besigye – who is trying to unseat president Museveni for the fourth time – will come out victorious.

In his election manifesto, Besigye said his party would set up a government of national unity that could even include members of the ruling National Resistance Movement if it wins the elections.

The idea of setting up a government of national unity is popular among the different groups that are competing against President Museveni, arguing that a new consensus needs to be built if Museveni’s three-decade rule comes to an end.