The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is gearing up for a grand homecoming ceremony for its presidential flag bearer, Nathan Nandala Mafabi, scheduled to take place this Saturday at Mbale Cricket Ground in Mbale City.
The event, described as a symbolic blessing from Mafabi’s home region, marks the official launch of his nationwide presidential campaign trail ahead of the 2026 general elections. Mafabi is expected to face stiff competition from candidates representing the ruling NRM, NUP, UPC, PFF, and others who have already picked nomination forms from the Electoral Commission (EC).
Party Unites Behind Mafabi
The development was announced by FDC spokesperson John Kikonyogo during a press briefing held at Mbale City Mayor’s Gardens. Kikonyogo revealed that while the party initially received four expressions of interest for the presidential flag, only two senior members—Nathan Nandala Mafabi and Patrick Oboi Amuriat—returned nomination papers.
He further explained that following internal consultations, party elders from 21 regions met at the FDC headquarters and successfully persuaded one of the contenders to step aside in the interest of party unity.
“The purpose of this event is for Nandala Mafabi, the current MP for Budadiri West in Sironko District and Chairman of BCU, to officially hand over his constituency to Rev. Jackson Magombe, our parliamentary flag bearer. He will also receive blessings from his home region before embarking on his national campaign,” Kikonyogo stated.
Calls for Unity and Forgiveness
Margaret Wokuri Madanda, FDC Deputy President for Eastern Uganda and MP flag bearer for Mbale Industrial City Division, appealed for reconciliation, urging residents of Bugisu and the Elgon region to rally behind Mafabi.
“Nandala, like any other person, may have made mistakes. But for the good of Bugisu and Eastern Uganda, I ask for forgiveness. We embrace his candidature because he is one of us, stepping forward to lead the country,” she said.
She also announced that in preparation for the event, the FDC, in partnership with city authorities, will organize a clean-up exercise across Mbale to welcome their presidential candidate.
Broad Support Across the Region
Azena Nambafu, FDC flag bearer for Woman MP, Mbale District, echoed the call for unity, urging both party members and supporters from other political affiliations to set aside their differences for the occasion.
“Let’s unite as Bugisu and give our son our blessings to lead this nation,” Nambafu said.
Harriet Kakai, Deputy Mayor of Mbale City and FDC parliamentary flag bearer, declared her unwavering commitment to the party and her political ambitions.
“Rain or sunshine, I will be in Parliament,” she vowed.
In a follow-up mobilization effort, Deputy Publicity Secretary Mulindwa Walid Lubega and FDC Mbale District Chairman Ben Martin Wanda appeared on 93.1 IUIU FM, reaching out to listeners in Bugisu and Bukedi subregions. They rallied the public to attend the homecoming and show support for Mafabi’s presidential bid.
