In This Article

  • FDC Unanimously Endorses Nathan Nandala Mafabi as 2026 Presidential Candidate
  • Patrick Amuriat Oboi Steps Down, Citing Unity and Party Success
  • Delegates' Conference Postponed Following Consensus
  • Leaders Emphasize Unity and Strategic Focus for 2026 Elections

Key Takeaways

  • The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) unanimously endorsed Nathan Nandala Mafabi as its 2026 presidential candidate following internal consultations and Patrick Oboi Amuriat's decision to step aside.
  • FDC President Patrick Oboi Amuriat withdrew his candidacy at the request of party elders, prioritizing unity and the party's success over personal ambition.
  • The FDC canceled its July 2025 delegates' conference, originally meant to elect a flag bearer, due to consensus around Mafabi's endorsement.
  • Amuriat emphasized his 28-year alliance with Mafabi and framed his withdrawal as a strategic move to strengthen the party's resolve ahead of the 2026 elections.
  • Nandala Mafabi pledged to lead the FDC with a focus on building a winning strategy, framing the endorsement as support for a shared national vision.

Trusted News Uganda reports that the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has officially endorsed Nathan Nandala Mafabi as its presidential flag bearer for the 2026 general elections. This decision follows a pivotal move by party president Patrick Oboi Amuriat, who has stepped down in favor of Mafabi.

According to sources, this development came after intense internal consultations led by senior party leaders and elders. It is reported that Amuriat, who represented the FDC in the 2021 presidential race, heeded a request from the party elders to withdraw his candidacy, allowing Mafabi to lead the charge in 2026.

During a press conference at the party headquarters, FDC President Patrick Amuriat Oboi emphasized his 28-year association with Mafabi and his unwavering loyalty to the FDC. He highlighted that stepping aside was a gesture of unity and a demonstration of his commitment to the party's broader success.

"I believe this decision strengthens our collective resolve to take the FDC forward," Amuriat said.

In response to the endorsement, Nandala Mafabi expressed his gratitude, describing it as a mark of trust and confidence from the party's leadership and membership. He pledged to steer the party with dedication and focus on building a winning strategy for 2026.

"This is not just an endorsement of me as a candidate; it's an endorsement of the vision we share for this country," Mafabi stated.

Meanwhile, FDC Chairman Jack Sabiiti confirmed that the delegates' conference, which had been scheduled for July 31, 2025, to elect the party's presidential flag bearer, has been called off following the consensus around Mafabi's endorsement.

With this decision, the FDC has made a significant move towards uniting its ranks and presenting a strong candidate for the upcoming 2026 general elections.