FDC Endorses Mafabi as Flagbearer for 2026 Presidential Race

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has officially endorsed Nathan Nandala Mafabi as its presidential flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, signaling a significant shift in the party’s leadership and electoral strategy.

The endorsement was made during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the party headquarters in Najjanankumbi, where members unanimously backed Mafabi, citing his political experience, national stature, and unwavering loyalty to the party’s founding principles.

Mafabi, the long-serving Member of Parliament for Budadiri West and former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, will now lead the party into what is expected to be a heated race for State House.

His endorsement comes as Patrick Oboi Amuriat, the FDC’s 2021 presidential candidate and current party president, stepped aside from seeking re-election, paving the way for new leadership at the top of the party's presidential ticket.

FDC insiders describe the move as a strategic realignment intended to rebuild grassroots support and project unity within the opposition party, which has in recent years faced internal wrangles and public criticism over direction and leadership.

“This is a turning point for FDC. We believe Hon. Mafabi embodies the integrity, discipline, and courage required to challenge the status quo,” said a senior NEC member who attended the meeting.

The party is expected to unveil a comprehensive campaign roadmap in the coming months, outlining its national mobilization strategy, thematic issues, and candidate rollout across the country.

Mafabi’s candidacy adds a new dynamic to Uganda’s evolving political landscape, with opposition alliances and party flagbearers expected to shape up as the country inches closer to the 2026 polls.

Mafabi joins Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform, Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation, Mathias Mpuuga of the Democratic Front, Norbert Mao of the Democratic Party, and Joseph Kabuleta of the National Economic Empowerment Dialogue as the opposition party heads to step forward to challenge incumbent Yoweri Museveni's 40-year- stranglehold on power.

This is besides other fringe aspirants such as John Katumba and Ivan Kisakye who have already announced their intention to vie for the top-most executive seat in the land.