The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, based in Najjanankumbi, has announced plans to engage in talks with their opposition counterparts, the National Unity Platform (NUP), to develop joint strategies ahead of the 2026 general election.
FDC president Patrick Oboi Amuriat made the announcement during a press conference at Najjanankumbi in Kampala, stating that the move is part of their strategy to prepare for the upcoming election.
Amuriat emphasized the need for opposition parties to work together, citing the lack of leadership and infighting within the opposition as a major hindrance to their success. He challenged NUP to provide leadership to the opposition, stating that as the leading opposition party in Parliament, they have a responsibility to guide the opposition.
The FDC has faced significant challenges in the past due to internal disagreements, including a notable split in 2017 that led to the formation of the Alliance for National Transformation. However, the party has launched a nationwide mobilization campaign and digital membership registration, aimed at renewing membership and embracing technology to align with the demands of the youth, who make up a significant percentage of their support base.
NUP has expressed openness to discussions and collaborations with other opposition parties, provided they prioritize the well-being of the country. However, they have emphasized the need for integrity checks to ensure that potential allies share their values.
The move towards unity among opposition parties comes as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general election. The FDC and NUP have been invited to a thanksgiving ceremony by the former Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Mathias Mpuuga, which is seen as a potential opportunity for the parties to come together and discuss their differences.
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is a prominent political party in Uganda with a rich history dating back to the early 2000s. The party was founded by a group of individuals who were dissatisfied with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government and its authoritarian tendencies.
The FDC’s roots can be traced back to the Reform Agenda, a pressure group formed in 2000 by a group of politicians, activists, and intellectuals who sought to challenge the NRM’s dominance. The Reform Agenda was led by figures such as Dr. Kizza Besigye, a former NRM stalwart who had fallen out with President Museveni, and Mr. Augustine Ruzindana, a veteran politician.
In 2004, the Reform Agenda transformed into the FDC, with Dr. Besigye as its inaugural chairman. The party’s founding principles were centered on democracy, human rights, and good governance. The FDC quickly gained popularity, attracting many Ugandans who were disillusioned with the NRM’s authoritarian rule.
In the 2006 general election, the FDC’s Dr. Besigye ran for president against President Museveni, garnering a significant 37% of the vote. Although he lost, the election marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s political history, as it demonstrated that the NRM was not invincible.
Over the years, the FDC has faced numerous challenges, including internal conflicts, defections, and state repression. In 2010, a faction of the party led by Mr. Mugisha Muntu broke away to form the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). Despite these setbacks, the FDC has remained a significant force in Ugandan politics.
In 2011, the FDC’s Dr. Besigye again ran for president, this time garnering 26% of the vote. The election was marred by allegations of fraud and voter intimidation, leading to widespread protests and arrests.
In recent years, the FDC has continued to play a crucial role in Uganda’s political landscape. In 2020, the party’s president, Patrick Oboi Amuriat, ran for president, garnering 16% of the vote. Although he lost, the election marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s political history, as it demonstrated the FDC’s resilience and determination.
Throughout its history, the FDC has been known for its commitment to democracy, human rights, and good governance. The party has also been at the forefront of advocating for political reforms, including the repeal of the controversial Public Order Management Act (POMA) and the amendment of the Electoral Commission Act.
Despite facing numerous challenges, the FDC remains a significant force in Ugandan politics, with a strong grassroots presence and a commitment to democratic values. As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general election, the FDC is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political future.
