The mainstream faction of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) based at Najjanankumbi, led by Jack Sabitti and Robert Centenary, has initiated a comprehensive grassroots mobilization strategy in Western Uganda. The move is accompanied by a parallel attempt to seek reconciliation with the Katonga faction within the party.
A closed-door meeting held at the Kings Hotel in Kabale district saw Sabitti and Centenary engaging with party leaders from the Kigezi region on Friday. The discussions, aimed at rejuvenating party support, were conducted with a high level of confidentiality, evidenced by the temporary confiscation of mobile phones to preserve the privacy of the deliberations.
Expressing dissatisfaction, Centenary called out Kigezi leaders for allegedly abstaining from the party structures’ elections organized by Najjanankumbi in late 2023. He urged them to clarify their perceived lack of support for Dr. Kizza Besigye in the 2001 presidential elections, especially in comparison to Kasese district.
While endorsing collaboration among opposition political parties for political change, Centenary acknowledged the frustrations faced by some individuals who perceive themselves as exclusive champions of this cause.
Sabitti, emphasizing the faction’s commitment to grassroots mobilization, outlined a strategy that begins with district and sub-county leaders. He underscored the importance of averting conflicts among top leaders that could hinder the party’s image and objectives.
The internal conflicts within FDC surfaced in November 2023 when the Katonga group, led by Dr. Kizza Besigye, accused the Najjanankumbi group, led by party President Patrick Amuriat Oboi and Secretary-General Nathan Nandala Mafabi, of accepting funds from President Yoweri Museveni during the 2021 general elections.
As Uganda gears up for the 2026 Presidential campaigns, the Electoral Commission has released key dates, including candidate nominations on October 2-3, 2025, electoral area demarcation by July 2024, and a general update of the National Voters’ Register by January 2025. The elections are scheduled to take place between January 12 and February 9, 2026.
