Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential flag bearer Nathan Nandala Mafabi pledged to revive Teso’s cooperative unions and strengthen the region’s economy during a massive rally in Soroti City, drawing thousands of supporters in a show of opposition solidarity.
Arriving at exactly 4:10 PM, Mafabi’s convoy was greeted with ululations, music, and dancing, temporarily bringing business to a standstill.
He was accompanied by key FDC leaders including Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo Acom, Soroti District Woman MP Ann Adeke Ebaju, Gweri County MP Tom Julius Ekudo, and former Soroti East MP Moses Attan Okia.
At Arrow Square, Mafabi outlined a comprehensive plan for economic revival, social transformation, and youth empowerment in Teso.
He described cooperative unions as “the backbone of community mobilization and wealth creation” and accused the current government of dismantling initiatives that once empowered farmers and traders.
“Cooperatives are the foundation of strong local economies. They enable communities to create jobs, trade fairly, and build wealth together,” Mafabi said.
“Unfortunately, President Museveni’s government dismantled these institutions that once gave people dignity and prosperity.”
Mafabi recalled Teso’s past prosperity, highlighting the region’s once-large cattle herds and productive farmlands. He promised compensation within two years for families affected by cattle raids during the 1980s and 1990s insurgencies.
He also pledged to prioritize agriculture, innovation, and industrialization, including establishing a cassava starch factory in Teso to generate jobs and improve farmers’ incomes.
Key infrastructure projects, including rehabilitation of the Soroti–Serere, Kumi–Ngora–Ocaapa–Kagwara, and Katine–Kalaki–Okaberamaido–Ocehero roads, were also promised to boost trade and connectivity.
Addressing youth empowerment, Mafabi proposed subsidizing motorcycle prices for boda boda riders, making Bajaj motorcycles available at two million shillings payable over five years.
He also vowed to fight corruption and ensure transparency in public funds.
In education, Mafabi promised higher teacher salaries and improved school infrastructure, while in health, he pledged to upgrade Soroti Regional Referral Hospital into a National Hospital with better facilities and enhanced pay for medical staff.
Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo Acom hailed the massive turnout as a sign of renewed faith in the opposition.
“The people of Teso have spoken, they are ready for change,” she said.
Mafabi is expected to continue his campaign across Soroti District, meeting local leaders and addressing more rallies as part of his nationwide mobilisation tour.
