The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party President Patrick Amuriat Oboi has officially stepped down in favor of Secretary General Nathan Nandala Mafabi to become the party’s presidential flag bearer ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The announcement followed hours of intense closed-door discussions at the FDC headquarters in Najjanankumbi, where party elders mediated between the two leaders to end a protracted standoff over who should lead the party into the polls.
Amuriat’s decision to step aside is being hailed as a selfless act aimed at uniting the party and positioning it strongly to challenge President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s 40-year rule.
According to insiders, the discussions emphasized the urgent need for cohesion within FDC to restore its dominance as Uganda’s leading opposition force.
“I have chosen to put the interests of the party above my personal ambition,” Amuriat said in a brief statement following the meeting.
“We must march forward as one united front if we are to give Ugandans a credible chance at change in 2026.”
With Amuriat’s endorsement, Nathan Nandala Mafabi now becomes FDC’s presidential flag bearer.
Known for his tough stance on accountability and grassroots mobilization, Mafabi’s candidacy is expected to inject fresh energy into the opposition and rally support across the country.
News of the breakthrough sparked celebrations among FDC supporters gathered outside Najjanankumbi, many of whom expressed relief at seeing an end to internal divisions.
“This is what we wanted, a single strong candidate who can unite us,” said Sarah Akol, an FDC supporter. “With Mafabi and Amuriat working together, we finally see hope for change.
Political analysts have described the move as a game-changer, noting that it could rejuvenate Uganda’s opposition landscape if other opposition groups rally behind Mafabi.
FDC is expected to officially unveil Mafabi as its flag bearer later today in a media briefing, marking the beginning of a campaign aimed squarely at ending President Museveni’s long reign.
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