The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has unveiled its 2026–2031 manifesto under the theme “Fixing the Economy; Money in Our Pockets”, presenting an ambitious blueprint to tackle Uganda’s economic challenges, youth unemployment, governance deficits, and weaknesses in social services.
The manifesto sets out key priority areas and promises a people-centered government focused on reviving the economy, reducing inequality, and restoring public trust in institutions.
At the core of the plan is a commitment to stabilize and grow Uganda’s struggling economy. The FDC criticized what it calls “reckless financial management” under the current regime, highlighting that public debt has surged past 50% of GDP.
The party pledges strict fiscal discipline, reduced borrowing, and targeted public investment in productive sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and cooperatives.
Reviving cooperative unions is seen as a pathway to boosting household incomes and creating rural employment.
Addressing youth unemployment is another central focus. According to the 2024 National Population and Housing Census, over four million Ugandan youth are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
The FDC plans to fill all government job vacancies, stimulate job-rich sectors, align the education system with market demands, and expand vocational and technical training opportunities.
The manifesto also critiques the state of Uganda’s health and education systems.
It promises to overhaul healthcare to ensure affordable and accessible services and to improve the quality of education and school infrastructure.
Additionally, the party pledges to lower the cost of living by subsidizing essential services and improving access to clean water, electricity, and transportation.
On governance, the FDC describes the current structure as dysfunctional and pledges to restore the independence of key institutions, including the judiciary and Parliament.
The party accuses the ruling regime of weaponizing state institutions and passing “anti-people laws.”
It promises electoral reforms, protection of civil liberties, and a peaceful transition of power—a milestone Uganda has yet to experience since independence.
Responding to growing tribal and regional tensions, the FDC aims to unite Ugandans under the slogan “One Uganda, One People”.
The party also commits to playing an active diplomatic role in resolving regional conflicts, particularly in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, citing their economic and humanitarian impacts on Uganda.
With this comprehensive roadmap, the FDC positions itself as a credible alternative for the 2026 general elections, offering a “social contract” with Ugandans founded on transparency, accountability, and economic transformation.
"This manifesto is not just a promise—it is a commitment to build a Uganda where every citizen has money in their pockets and dignity in their lives,” said Mafabi during the launch.