Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi faced backlash from sections of voters in Rukungiri District as he launched his campaign in the Kigezi sub-region, with critics accusing him of failing the party and bearing responsibility for the arrest and continued detention of Dr Kizza Besigye.
Political activity and business remained largely normal in Rukungiri on the day of the campaign launch, with few campaign posters visible along major streets and roads.
Unlike previous visits by senior FDC figures, there was no visible buildup or mass mobilisation ahead of Mafabi’s arrival.
Mafabi arrived in Rukungiri Municipality at about 3:00pm accompanied by senior party leaders, including party chairman Jack Sabiiti and western region vice chairperson Robert Centenary.
However, many residents appeared indifferent, with crowds remaining thin along the streets.
Contrary to the usual practice of holding rallies at Rukungiri Municipal Stadium, Mafabi and the party leadership did not stop to engage voters directly.
The convoy instead drove to Karegyesa Road, where a brief roadside engagement lasting about 20 minutes was held.
During the stop, some passers-by openly scoffed at the campaign team, accusing the current FDC leadership of suffocating the party’s progress and having a hand in the circumstances that led to Besigye’s arrest.
Observers noted that the level of hostility was unusual for a district traditionally considered sympathetic to the party.
The reception contrasted sharply with past visits by senior FDC leaders, which often attracted large and enthusiastic crowds. This time, only a small number of supporters turned up to listen to the campaign messages.
In response to the accusations, Sabiiti and Centenary dismissed claims that the party leadership was responsible for Besigye’s detention, saying the party remains committed to securing his release and that of all political prisoners.
“Our friend Besigye is in prison, and our prayer is that President Museveni releases him so that he can be free like any other Ugandan and enjoy his freedom,” party leaders said.
Mafabi also rejected the accusations, telling supporters that if elected president, he would ensure the immediate release of Besigye and other political detainees.
“Recently Museveni was here in Kigezi. How I wish everyone had demanded the release of Besigye,” Mafabi said while addressing the gathering.
After the brief engagement, Mafabi’s convoy again drove through the municipality without stopping to wave at residents before heading to Rubabo Street, where he officially opened FDC party offices.
Shortly after the opening, some residents demanded that Mafabi leave the municipality, insisting they could not welcome him while the party was divided and Besigye remained in detention.
Mafabi later departed Rukungiri for Kanungu District. He is expected to continue his Kigezi tour on Tuesday with campaign activities scheduled in Kabale, Rubanda and Kisoro districts.
