The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has unveiled its 2026 presidential flag bearer, Nathan Nandala Mafabi—but it was the dramatic entry of new members from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) that stole the spotlight at the party’s headquarters yesterday.
Among the defectors were Letit Ketty Okao from Kwania, Dr Grace Anna Lalam, and Prisciline Lakot Otoi from Omoro District.
The trio, presented before an elated crowd, cited disillusionment with the NRM and pledged to champion FDC’s message of change across Uganda.
Dr Lalam recounted her frustration in the last election, where she ran as an independent in Dokolo but claims she was persuaded to step down with promises of an NRM flag—a promise she says was broken, with her votes allegedly diverted.
Okao likened her political journey in the NRM to “boarding a bus to the wrong destination,” citing widespread bribery and unfair practices she could no longer tolerate.
FDC president Patrick Amuriat welcomed the defectors with open arms, describing their move as an act of courage and a sign of the party’s growing influence.
He announced that Letit Okao would carry the FDC flag in Kwania, while Lakot would contest in Omoro during the 2026 polls.
“Our new members will be our flag bearers in northern Uganda—proof of the party’s expansion and the quality of leadership emerging in the region,” Amuriat said.
He also pledged unwavering support for Mafabi’s presidential bid, highlighting him as a steadfast ally who has stood by the party through its most challenging moments.
The lively ceremony—filled with chants, music, and ululations—attracted leaders from across the country and delegations from sister opposition parties, including the Democratic Party (DP), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), and Justice Forum (JEEMA).
In his address, Mafabi unveiled a manifesto centered on reducing unemployment, enhancing human capital, and making strategic infrastructure investments under the campaign theme “Fixing the Economy, Money in Your Pocket.”
With the symbolic crossing of these NRM members into FDC ranks, the party’s political engine roared into high gear, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense and spirited race toward the 2026 general elections.