Africa-Press – Uganda. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is set to conclude its nomination process for the 2026 presidential flagbearer today at its headquarters. Patrick Oboi Amuriat is scheduled to submit his forms at 11:30 a.m., followed by Nathan Nandala Mafabi at midday.
New developments indicate Party President Patrick Oboi Amuriat has stepped aside to contest in the election, leading to a temporary change in leadership.
“,” a party insider confirmed.
Yesterday’s proceedings saw a setback for one aspirant. “Mr. Usaama Ssemogerere, who had initially picked up nomination forms, returned them but was not duly nominated,” stated Ojobire Augustine, the Secretary to the Electoral Commission.
The reason for his disqualification was clear: “He did not have the required number of delegates, as they were expected to be 20 from across the country. Some of his stated individuals were not cardholders of FDC but supporters of the party.”
Adding to the uncertainty, the status of another aspirant remains unclear. “Mr. Arinest Bumba, another aspirant, is reportedly considering withdrawing from the race,” Ojobire revealed.
While a formal communication is yet to be received, he added, “He has not yet written formally, but there is rumor of stepping down.” The Electoral Commission has since informed the party leadership about this development.
The nomination process adhered to guidelines established by the NEC in April 2025. These guidelines stipulated that aspirants must provide a “Shs.5m receipt non-refundable,” “3 passport [photos],” secure “A proposer and 3 seconders,” and garner support from “20 delegates, 5 from each of the 4 regions.” Furthermore, all “Duly nominated are subjected to vetting.”
The candidates who navigated these requirements and remain in contention include “Mr. Matsiko Dan,” Nathan Nandala Mafabi,” “Mr. Bumba Arinest,” Patrick Oboi Amuriat,” “Mr. Usaama Ssemogerere,” and “Mr. Malinga Gerald.”
Despite the caliber of some contenders, the nomination period has lacked the vibrancy typically associated with FDC internal elections.
“The most anticipated contest is between Hon. Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi, much as the race seems not to be attracting charisma.
The party headquarters are yet to see party supporters flock the ground, contrary to the former hotly contested primaries of the Forum for Democratic Change, which saw the party on two occasions torn apart,” a long-time party observer noted.
Another potential aspirant faced a setback early on. “Moses Byamugisha, who has been a member of FDC, is said to have expressed interest in being nominated, but the party says he did not pick the nomination forms, making him automatically disqualified from the race,” confirmed Ojobile Augustine, the FDC Electoral Commission Secretary.
As the FDC prepares to conclude the nomination process today, the party faces the critical task of unifying its members and regaining public confidence as it moves forward towards the crucial vetting stage and the selection of its flag bearer for the 2026 presidential election.
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