By Our Reporter
Uganda’s opposition landscape is undergoing a seismic shift as nine Members of Parliament formerly aligned with the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) have officially defected to the newly formed People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) — a political platform spearheaded by veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
The announcement, made by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among during the national budget reading at Kololo ceremonial grounds on Thursday, marks a significant blow to the FDC and underscores deepening internal rifts ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“We extend our best wishes to the members as they exercise their freedom of association as enshrined in Article 29 of the 1995 Constitution,” Among said, confirming the defections.
The Defectors: A Who’s Who of FDC’s Parliamentary Heavyweights
The nine lawmakers who have joined PFF are some of FDC’s most recognizable and outspoken figures, hailing from different parts of the country:
- Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda – Kira Municipality
- Hon. Kabuusu Moses – Kyamuswa County
- Hon. Nyakato Asinasi – Hoima City Woman MP
- Hon. Dr. Nicholas Kamara – Kabale Municipality
- Hon. Katusabe Atkins Godfrey – Bukonjo County West
- Hon. Muhindo Harold Tonny – Bukonjo County East
- Hon. Namanya Naboth – Rubabo County
- Hon. Francis Mwijukye – Buhweju County
- Hon. Aol Betty Ochan – Gulu City Woman MP
With this latest exodus, FDC’s strength in the 11th Parliament has dwindled from 32 to 23 MPs, further diminishing its influence and organizational credibility in Uganda’s multiparty politics.
The defections are the latest manifestation of a long-simmering crisis within the FDC, which intensified in 2023 amid a bitter leadership fallout. The party became deeply fractured as rival factions led by Dr. Besigye and Patrick Amuriat, alongside Secretary General Nathan Nandala Mafabi, clashed over accusations of financial impropriety, lack of transparency, and alleged infiltration by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Dr. Besigye, once the unifying face of Uganda’s organized opposition, parted ways with the FDC leadership and has since rallied disenchanted party members and grassroots structures under the People’s Front for Freedom, positioning it as a revitalized opposition alternative.
The Rise Of PFF: A New Political Contender?
With prominent legislators now backing the PFF, political analysts believe Uganda could be witnessing the early stages of a major opposition realignment. Besigye’s re-emergence on the national stage—especially backed by parliamentary figures—raises questions about whether PFF can consolidate enough momentum to challenge NRM’s grip on power and NUP’s rising influence, particularly among urban and youth voters.
“This is not just a breakaway—it’s a statement,” says political analyst Sarah Kyomuhendo. “FDC’s identity crisis has given birth to a new opposition nucleus, and it’s drawing its legitimacy from old wounds and fresh hope.”
As the ruling NRM prepares for yet another campaign cycle under President Yoweri Museveni, and the National Unity Platform (NUP) continues to capture youthful energy and urban bases, the opposition is increasingly fragmented. Whether PFF can offer a credible third force—or simply deepen the disunity—is yet to be seen.
However, what’s clear is that the FDC’s days as Uganda’s main opposition party are fading. With Besigye’s new vehicle gaining traction and key MPs publicly shifting allegiance, the countdown to 2026 may usher in not only an electoral contest—but a complete redefinition of Uganda’s opposition politics.