-Intriguing Developments Unfold Within The 19-year-old Party
By Insight Post Uganda
Kampala, Uganda
The Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) delegate’s conference, which convened at Katonga Road offices, has made a series of resolutions that are sending ‘convulsions’ through Uganda’s political scene.
Among these resolutions is the suspension of top party leaders, including President- Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat, Secretary-General Nandala Mafabi, and Treasurer-General Godfrey Ekanya. This bold move has sparked intense discussions and debates within the political arena.
It’s important to note that the parallel delegate’s conference held at Katonga Road has been met with legal contests, questioning its legitimacy.
Nevertheless, this parallel conference has taken a radical step by proposing a complete overhaul of the opposition leadership based at Najjanankumbi.
The delegate’s conference also put forth a series of proposals aimed at reshaping the FDC’s leadership and electoral commission. Erias Lukwago, a seasoned politician with a strong presence in Kampala, is the proposed interim president.
Harlod Kaija is slated to take on the role of interim secretary-general, while Francis Mwijukye is poised to be the interim treasurer-general. These proposed changes reflect a desire for new leadership and direction within the FDC.
Furthermore, the conference decided to suspend the FDC electoral commissioners led by Toterebuka Bamwenda. In their place, Hon. Kabaziguruka will assume the role of chairman, with deputies Hon. Jack Wamayi Wamanga, Hon. Ogongson, and Elizabeth Walabye.
This change is a response to what the conference views as “fraudulent elections” organised by the previous electoral commission. The interim commission’s task is to ensure the organisation of free and fair elections in the future.
Yellow FDC Vs Blue FDC
It’s worth highlighting that the FDC currently grapples with two factions, each claiming to represent the legitimate party leadership. One faction is based at Katonga, while the other operates from Najjanankumbi.
The Najjanankumbi faction had initially scheduled another delegate’s conference for October 6, 2023, where new leaders would be elected, given the expiration of the current term in April. This schism within the party has created a complex and contentious political landscape.
Legal Battles, Police Intervention
Both the Najjanankumbi and Katonga factions have dismissed each other’s attempts to organise the National Delegate’s conference, citing issues of legality.
Additionally, the police have declined to provide security for the Katonga conference, emphasising the need for the two factions to reconcile their differences to prevent potential clashes.
According to political analysts, the FDC delegate’s conference at Katonga Road has ignited a political firestorm, with far-reaching implications for Uganda’s opposition politics.
They argue that the suspension of key party leaders and the proposed changes in leadership mark a significant turning point within the FDC.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, political observers are keen to see how these developments will impact the party’s future and Uganda’s broader political dynamics.
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