As the 2026 general elections draw closer, several opposition political parties, including the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Democratic Party (DP), and Uganda People's Congress (UPC), find themselves entangled in internal conflicts.
Despite assertions from within these parties that reconciliation is on the horizon, veteran politician Wasswa Lule expresses skepticism about their ability to overcome divisions and effectively reorganize for the upcoming polls.
Following the 2021 elections, internal conflicts have emerged within key opposition parties, leading to sharp divisions.
FDC, for instance, grapples with two factions, one at Katonga and another at Najjanankumbi and on the other side, DP faces a similar scenario, with factions led by party president general Norbert Mao and a group of disgruntled MPs operating at Parliament.
UPC has not escaped internal strife either.
Despite the internal conflicts, some opposition political parties remain optimistic about reconciling their differences and mounting a formidable challenge against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in 2026.
FDC's National Vice Chairperson for the Western region, Robert Centenary, and UPC's Secretary-General, Fred Ebil, express confidence in the possibility of finding common ground.
"Our focus remains on providing alternative policies and uprooting Museveni. Differences can be found in any organization, but our commitment to change remains steadfast," says Centenary.
In the dynamic landscape of Ugandan politics, internal differences are not uncommon within political parties, including the ruling NRM.
FDC's Vice Chairman for the Western region and UPC's Secretary-General highlight the importance of learning from past challenges, emphasizing that every setback offers an opportunity for growth.
"Every bad past is something to learn from. We are committed to addressing internal issues and moving forward," notes Fred Ebil.
The consequences of internal conflicts within FDC, UPC, and DP have resulted in divisions, potentially impacting their effectiveness in electoral contests.
Party leaders acknowledge the challenges but assert their dedication to resolving internal differences.
"We are working hard to resolve our internal differences and present a united front. The focus is on the common goal of defeating NRM in the 2026 elections," emphasizes an unnamed party leader.
Wasswa Lule, a veteran politician, expresses doubts about the feasibility of opposition parties effectively reorganizing ahead of the 2026 polls.
Despite efforts to address internal issues, Lule believes the complexities of reorganizing and presenting a cohesive front remain daunting.
"While they might try to deal with internal issues, reorganizing ahead of the 2026 polls might be difficult," cautions Lule.
As the opposition grapples with internal conflicts, the road to the 2026 elections appears challenging, with uncertainties about their ability to unify and mount a strong electoral challenge against the ruling NRM.