Rukiga: Ex-FDC Chairperson Mbareba Joins LCV Race as Independent

Michael Kwarikunda Mbareeba

Rukiga – Former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Rukiga District Chairperson, Michael Kwarikunda Mbareba, has officially entered the race for the LCV Chairperson seat as an independent candidate, marking a major shift in the district’s political landscape.

The announcement, made on the final day of nominations, ends Mbareba’s long-standing ties with the FDC and casts doubt on the party’s footing in Rukiga ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking to journalists shortly after his nomination, Mbareba said his decision was driven by overwhelming public demand.

“The voice of the people is the voice of God. In 2021, I stood on the FDC ticket, but this time, many people asked me to contest independently. I had no option but to heed their call,” he said.

He further confirmed his resignation from the FDC, both as a member and as district chairperson.

“I am no longer a member of the FDC, and I am no longer the FDC chairman for Rukiga district. There is a difference between being a party chairman and being a leader of the district. I chose the latter,” Mbareba explained.

His departure leaves a leadership vacuum in the FDC’s Rukiga structures, with political observers warning that it could weaken the opposition party’s influence at a critical moment.

Mbareba now faces what is expected to be a tight three-way race against Simon Mutebi of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Silvano Ntoreirwe of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Analysts suggest that his move could either broaden his appeal among disillusioned voters or risk fragmenting the opposition vote. His supporters, however, argue that his defection represents a growing demand for people-centered leadership beyond rigid party lines.

As the campaign season unfolds, Mbareba’s independent bid is set to reshape the political terrain in Rukiga, one of southwestern Uganda’s closely watched districts