KASESE
A section of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) members in Kasese District have defected to the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), accusing the once formidable opposition party of losing direction and failing to provide a credible alternative to the ruling government.
The leadership of the Kaghema Parish FDC structure resolved to join PFF after a committee meeting held on Saturday in Kaghema, Kasese. The defectors, while announcing their move, also called for the release of former FDC president Dr. Kizza Besigye, whom they described as a symbol of resistance to oppression.
In response, FDC vice chairperson for Western Uganda and former Kasese Municipality MP, Robert Centenary, downplayed the defections, insisting the development was not unusual in politics.
“Usually, when we are selecting among the flagbearers, some of those who don’t get the party card sometimes leave. But even in other political parties, some people also cross over to join us. That is natural, and there is no way you can completely stop it, because there will always be someone who, whether they have a flag or not, still wants to appear on the ballot paper. And this happens in all political organizations,” Centenary said.
He added that the party had anticipated some defections in the run-up to the 2026 elections.
“Therefore, the issue of some candidates defecting and going elsewhere in this season is something we expected. But I want to assure Ugandans that as FDC, we are fielding flagbearers in almost every elective position, and we expect support and victory in the 2026 elections,” he stated.
FDC endorsed party secretary general Nathan Nandala Mafabi as its presidential candidate for the 2026 general elections. Centenary also confirmed that the party is waiting for the Electoral Commission to verify the submitted signatures and award a certificate of nomination.
“We shall officially present Nandala Mafabi for nomination on 24 September after receiving the certificate from the EC,” Centenary disclosed.
The developments come at a time when the opposition landscape remains fragmented, with parties jostling to consolidate support ahead of the 2026 polls.
