Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential flag bearer Rt. Hon. James Nathan Nandala Mafabi has delivered an emotional and impassioned message to Ugandans, pledging to lead the country out of economic hardship and political stagnation.
Speaking at the official launch of the FDC’s 2026–2031 manifesto, Mafabi positioned himself as the champion of a peaceful, people-centered transition aimed at restoring dignity, employment, and national unity.
Highlighting the nation’s social and economic challenges, Mafabi said: “Never in my life did I imagine that people would laugh at the dead and scorn the bereaved. Back then, death was a uniting factor, but today, the dead—especially those perceived to have power—are mocked. This reflects the unbearable conditions and untold suffering that millions of Ugandans are enduring.”
Using data from the 2024 National Population and Housing Census, Mafabi stressed Uganda’s heavy dependency ratio, noting that 84 out of every 100 people rely on others for survival.
“Only 26 Ugandans are waking up every day to meet demands for food, school fees, rent, and medical bills. The rest are barely surviving,” he said.
Mafabi criticized the government for squandering past opportunities, including the 1997 debt relief under the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative.
“Our debt had dropped to zero. That was the time to rebuild the country. Instead, today, Uganda’s debt has shot beyond the recommended 50% of GDP threshold. Our trust to borrow is now dwindling,” he said.
Announcing his 2026 presidential candidacy, Mafabi promised to prioritize jobs, economic recovery, and institutional integrity.
Under the theme, “Fixing the Economy; Money in Our Pockets,” the FDC manifesto includes:
- Reviving cooperative unions and investing in productive sectors
- Filling all government vacancies
- Improving infrastructure and ensuring affordable electricity
- Developing a skilled, healthy workforce
- Managing national resources frugally and reducing the debt burden
He also emphasized peace and national unity, pledging a democratic transition rooted in the rule of law.
“I come as a bridge to peacefully carry Ugandans from the current political, social, and economic hopelessness to a country we can all be proud of,” Mafabi said.
Describing the manifesto as a “social contract,” he urged citizens to vote decisively in 2026.
“A vote for me is a vote for employment, a stronger economy, and a better Uganda. Your vote will guarantee a peaceful transition—One Uganda, One People.”
