By As Uganda’s political atmosphere heats up ahead of the 2026 general elections, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is turning its attention inward, using its presidential flag bearer vetting process not only to select a candidate but to foster unity and prevent internal friction.
Electoral Commission chairperson Toterebuka Bamwenda, speaking at a press conference on Monday 12th May , highlighted that the party is handling the vetting process as a an opportunity for self-examination and not conflict.
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“Our intention is to bring the two candidates together on May 13 and engage them in a conversation,” Bamwenda said. “We want to hear from them, not just as competitors, but as leaders with a shared responsibility to preserve and advance the FDC’s mission.”
The two presidential aspirants including party president Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat and secretary general Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi successfully completed the nomination process by the May 7 deadline.
Bamwenda asserted that the commission’s responsibility is not only administrative but also moral and strategic. “If there is room for consensus, we shall explore it,” he said. “If the candidates agree, we may even proceed without a vote. But if they want the delegates to decide, we’ll organize a fair, transparent election.”
He emphasized the significance discipline and internal cohesion as key to FDC’s strength. “We’ve witnessed what disunity can do to a political party,” he said. “Our job as a commission is to safeguard the integrity of this process and ensure that, win or lose, the party comes out stronger.”
Bamwenda added that the commission is determined to enforce rules strictly. “No late submissions. No drama. No shortcuts. If you can’t meet the deadline or follow the guidelines, this process is not for you,” he cautioned.
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The chairperson also reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency and inclusion, stating that “We are not just electing a flag bearer, we are rebuilding our credibility, renewing our identity, and preparing to lead the nation not just the party into a better future.”
The party’s roadmap includes upcoming nominations for special interest groups and other positions across the party structures.
