The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is gearing up for an intense internal battle as Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Nathan Nandala Mafabi emerge as the official contenders for the party’s coveted 2026 presidential flag bearer slot.
The announcement, recently made by the Party Electoral Commission, has ignited a friendly fire between the two seasoned leaders, each bringing a distinct ideology, dedicated support base, and compelling vision for the future of the FDC.
Amuriat, the FDC’s presidential candidate in the 2021 elections, returns to the political arena championing his signature populist, mobilization-first approach. He is fondly (or perhaps controversially) remembered for his barefoot campaigns and confrontational style, symbolizing a potent brand of resistance politics. His campaign will likely focus on rekindling this image and leveraging his grassroots connection to rally support.
In stark contrast, Mafabi represents a more institutional and reform-driven vision for the party. The long-serving Budadiri West MP and former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament is betting on his established reputation as a firm, no-nonsense strategist. His supporters believe he embodies the discipline and strategic acumen needed to propel the FDC to victory.
The upcoming countrywide campaigns to win over FDC delegates are being viewed by insiders as more than just a leadership contest. It’s a battle for the very soul of the party, a pivotal moment that will determine its future direction.
“This is not just about who becomes flagbearer,” asserted Boniface Toterebuka Bamwenda, chairperson of the FDC Electoral Commission. “It’s about which direction the party takes — whether it remains activist-driven, deeply rooted in resistance, or leans into structured political engagement, prioritizing institutional reform and strategic maneuvering.”
Despite their shared objective of unseating the long-ruling NRM regime, the two camps within the FDC have already begun subtly drawing battle lines. Amuriat’s camp emphasizes his deep connection with the grassroots and his proven commitment to electoral activism, positioning him as the true voice of the common person. Conversely, Mafabi’s supporters champion him as the tactician the party desperately needs – a leader capable of winning both votes and effectively navigating the complex landscape of Ugandan institutions.
In separate statements released following their nomination, both candidates adopted tones of unity and underscored their readiness for the challenge ahead.
“I’m ready to hit the ground running. This is a movement to reclaim our country,” declared Amuriat, energizing his base with his familiar fighting spirit. “But we must remain firm, bold, and grounded in the struggle of the common people.”
Mafabi, meanwhile, strategically emphasized reconciliation and party reform, highlighting the need for internal cohesion. “Our strength lies in organization. We must consolidate, not divide,” he stated. “My candidacy is about discipline, integrity, and strategy.”
The Delegates’ Conference in July will serve as the grand stage where one of these two men will be crowned the FDC’s standard-bearer for the 2026 presidential election.
Until then, all eyes will be intently fixed on the unfolding campaign trail – scrutinizing every move, every speech, and every pledge – as the party grapples with the critical question of whether this internal contest will ultimately strengthen or further fracture the Forum for Democratic Change. The stakes are high, and the future of the FDC hangs in the balance.
