The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party is rolling out a new generation of membership identity cards in an effort to curb the notorious issue of stage-managed defections. These new IDs are designed to be as secure as a bank vault, aiming to end the practice of rival parties buying and manipulating FDC cards for their own political gains.
Leaders of the FDC’s Najjanankumbi faction are currently touring Uganda to encourage electronic registration. They want to replace the old, easily counterfeited paper IDs with new, high-tech cards that resemble national IDs and driver’s licenses in terms of design and security features.
Brian Ogutu, the FDC Deputy Secretary for Mobilisation in Northern Uganda, explained that the old FDC IDs were a bit like paper money—easy to forge and trade. Ogutu noted that some members of rival parties, including the National Resistance Movement (NRM), previously bought FDC IDs, handed them out to their supporters, and staged defections. According to Ogutu, the new IDs are set to put an end to this practice with their advanced security features.
Key Features of the New FDC IDs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Barcode | Contains detailed information about the cardholder |
| Unique Serial Number | Every ID has a distinct number for identification |
| Photo | Includes a photograph of the cardholder |
| Thumbprint | Features the cardholder’s thumbprint |
These new IDs come with a barcode, unique serial numbers, a photograph, and a thumbprint of the cardholder, making them nearly impossible to duplicate or falsify. Ogutu emphasized that this upgrade will make the membership registration process both secure and convenient. Prospective members can now register online from their smartphones or computers, a move aimed at making the process as hassle-free as possible.
Hassan Fundagro Kaps, the FDC Deputy President in Northern Uganda, announced that electronic registration for the Acholi sub-region will officially launch on August 3, 2024. The launch event will be held as a rally at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City, open to all interested parties.
In a related development, James Ocen, the NRM party chairman for Gulu district, commented on the situation, denying any claims of stage-managed defections or bribery. Ocen stated that the NRM had registered numerous FDC supporters voluntarily in their recent membership drive. This assertion aims to counter the FDC’s allegations and maintain the NRM’s reputation.
This development comes after Uganda’s Minister of Security, Major General Jim Muhwezi, welcomed over 1,000 former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) supporters who defected to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party in Rukingiri District over the weekend. The event was marked by an emphasis on the government’s commitment to socio-economic development and poverty reduction.
Minister Muhwezi took the opportunity to highlight the NRM government’s dedication to transforming Uganda’s economy and improving livelihoods. “Our aim is to bring about significant changes in the economy and enhance the well-being of our people,” Muhwezi stated.
One of the key programs Muhwezi discussed was the Parish Development Model (PDM). This initiative is designed to move approximately 3.5 million households from subsistence farming to a more robust money economy. Each parish is set to receive Shs100 million to support poverty alleviation efforts. “This money is for you to drive poverty away from your families and communities,” Muhwezi encouraged the new NRM members.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding per Parish | Shs100 million to support poverty reduction |
| Target | 3.5 million households across Uganda |
| Objective | Transition from subsistence farming to money economy |
In his address, Muhwezi assured the new members of their warm reception into the NRM, stating, “The NRM government welcomes everyone, and we will reward you with open arms.” He encouraged the defectors to actively support government programs and contribute to the fight against poverty.
Rukungiri District Deputy Resident Commissioner, Wilberforce Ongom, urged the new NRM members to seize the opportunity provided by the peace and stability under the NRM government. Ongom emphasized the need for hard work and dedication to improve their lives.
District Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama also addressed the new members, stressing the importance of education. “Please ensure your children are educated; the NRM government has introduced Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programs to support their learning,” Kyomukama said.
Ruhinda Sub-County Chairperson, Ms. Hellen Kabajungu, expressed gratitude to Minister Muhwezi for his support and called for unity and cooperation among the new NRM members. Former FDC supporters who joined the NRM shared their experiences, citing dissatisfaction with the opposition’s progress and their eagerness to work with the NRM government for personal and communal development.
