The Hoima Post – Trustable News 24 -7
In a significant political development, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has officially named Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi as its presidential candidate for the upcoming 2026 general elections. The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the party headquarters, marking a strategic shift aimed at restoring unity and clarity within one of Uganda’s main opposition parties.
The move comes following the decision by outgoing party president Patrick Oboi Amuriat to withdraw his candidature from the 2026 presidential race. Party officials hailed Amuriat’s gesture as a selfless act intended to prevent internal wrangles that have historically weakened the FDC’s position ahead of past elections.
“Our focus is to approach the 2026 elections with a united front and a clear message to Ugandans,” said one of the senior FDC leaders during the announcement. “We believe Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi embodies the experience, integrity, and strategic leadership needed to take this party forward and challenge the regime that has crippled Uganda for decades.”
Mafabi, who currently serves as the FDC Secretary General and Member of Parliament for Budadiri West, is a seasoned politician known for his strong parliamentary performance, firm stance on anti-corruption, and deep-rooted ties to grassroots movements. His nomination signals the party’s intent to rebrand itself with a candidate who appeals to both traditional supporters and undecided voters seeking accountability and change.
In his acceptance speech, Nandala Mafabi pledged to build a broader coalition of pro-democracy forces, rally the youth and civil society, and address the pressing issues affecting ordinary Ugandans — from rampant corruption and unemployment to the erosion of democratic institutions.
“I do not take this responsibility lightly,” Mafabi declared. “Ugandans are yearning for transformational leadership, and I stand ready to be the vessel through which we can reclaim our nation’s future. Together, we shall end impunity and bring about a new era of justice, economic fairness, and dignity.”
The decision to endorse Mafabi is widely seen as a calculated attempt by FDC to avert the internal divisions that marred previous election cycles. In 2021, the party faced internal power struggles that saw several prominent members defect or remain inactive during the campaign period. With 2026 looming, party insiders say there’s no room for disunity or mixed messaging.
Analysts view the development as a positive step for Uganda’s fragmented opposition, especially as the country heads toward what is expected to be a high-stakes electoral season. While the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is yet to officially confirm President Yoweri Museveni’s candidacy, the opposition is already mobilizing for what could be one of the most consequential contests in recent memory.
It remains to be seen how other opposition parties — including the National Unity Platform (NUP) led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) — will respond to FDC’s strategic announcement. However, there are growing calls from civil society and political commentators for opposition unity to increase the chances of dislodging the NRM after nearly four decades in power.
As the 2026 race begins to take shape, all eyes will be on Mafabi and the FDC to see whether this new direction can revitalize the party and reignite hope among Ugandans seeking democratic change.
