Delegates from six sub-regions in eastern Uganda, representing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), have officially given their support to Patrick Amuriat as the next party president. These sub-regions encompass Bugisu, Bukedi South, Bukedi North, Sebei, Busoga, and Kyoga.
The endorsement event occurred at the Mountain Inn Hotel in Namakwekwe, Mbale City Northern City Division over the weekend. Its main purpose was to listen to Amuriat’s message. Emma Sebunyo, a delegate from Bulambuli district, mentioned that the competition for the party president’s position is between Moses Byamugisha and Patrick Amuriat Oboi.
Sebunyo noted that Amuriat has displayed effective leadership, particularly in his efforts to unite the party and resist attempts by supporters of Dr. Kiiza Besigye, the former FDC president, to undermine it. Delegates believe that Amuriat is the right candidate to continue as party president. Samuel Owuma, a delegate from Busia district, highlighted the successful collaboration between Nathan Nandala Mafabi as the General Secretary and Amuriat over the past five years, which has contributed to the party’s stability. As a result, they see no reason to change the party’s leadership.
Patrick Amuriat Oboi, seeking re-election, appealed to delegates to vote for him on October 6th, 2023, during the delegate’s conference. He emphasized the importance of working with Nandala to bring stability to the party amid the current conflicts. Amuriat reassured delegates and party supporters, urging them to remain calm.
He dismissed concerns that the party would disintegrate due to the ongoing disputes within Besigye’s faction. Geoffrey Ekanya, the Tororo county member of parliament, urged all FDC delegates and supporters to participate in the delegate conference where they will vote for the party’s leadership.