By Ritah Atukwatse,
KAMPALA,
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) called off its highly anticipated National Delegates Conference, initially set for Thursday, July 31, 2025,.
The cancelation according to the party national chairman, Jack Sabiiti follows a surprising withdrawal by one of the party’s presidential candidate, Eng. Patrick Amuriat Oboi who stepped down from the race effectively clearing the path for SG and former leader of opposition, Rt. Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi to become the party’s flag bearer for the upcoming general elections.
“We must now unite behind Mafabi, for the good of the party and Uganda at large,” Sabiiti said.
Amuriat announced his withdrawal during a press conference at the party headquarters in Najjanankumbi, Kampala, on Wednesday.
Additionally, Sabiiti said the withdrawal of Amuriat is significant to sparing the party from financial distress of organizing a delegates conference.
He instead issued a notice to a Special National Council meeting which has been scheduled for August 13, 2025.
During this gathering, the FDC will discuss to discuss on key decisions regarding FDC’s strategies for the 2026 general elections.
The Delegates Conference had been expected to convene representatives from all 21 sub-regions of Uganda to vote on who would represent FDC in the presidential race. However, Amuriat’s surprise exit from the race has left Nandala Mafabi as the likely and uncontested flag bearer for FDC.
“The cancellation of the National Delegates Conference is a direct result of the consensus reached within the party, following Amuriat’s decision to step aside. The FDC leadership believes this is the best way forward for the party as we approach the next election,” said party Electoral Commission chairperson, Hon. Toterebuka Bamwenda Boniface, while receiving Amuriat’s withdrawal letter and declaring Mafabi’s candidacy
He stressed the importance of unity within the party following this unexpected turn of events.
“We must put aside our differences and rally behind Hon. Nandala Mafabi as he prepares to lead the party into the upcoming elections. This is a critical time for FDC, and we call for discipline, cohesion, and full support for our candidate,” Mwenda urged.
Party leaders also emphasized the need to remain focused on the bigger picture, and focus on ensuring that FDC presents a unified front as it heads into what could be one of the most pivotal elections in Uganda’s history.
