The Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has strongly condemned the violent and chaotic scenes that unfolded during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries and nominations, warning that Uganda is on the verge of repeating a dark history of election-related violence carried out by gangs.
Speaking to the press at the party’s headquarters in Najjanankumbi, FDC Deputy Secretary for Publicity, Walid Mulindwa Lubega, criticized what he described as irresponsible and criminal behaviour by a section of NRM supporters.
The incidents occurred over the weekend during the nomination of NRM party chairman and incumbent president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, at the party’s offices on Kyadondo Road in Kampala.
According to Mulindwa, a group of NRM youths, allegedly led by Christopher Ddamulira, stormed city streets, harassed the public, and looted roadside vendors.
He likened the scenes to past election violence, notably the 2001 incidents involving the Kalangala Action Plan under Maj. Ronald Kakooza Mutale, as well as other violent groups including the notorious Boda-Boda 2010 led by Abdallah Kitata.
Mulindwa warned his is a disturbing reminder of the kind of impunity and intimidation tactics that characterized past elections. It shows the NRM is once again prepared to use gangs to secure power,”.
In a separate development, the FDC has suspended its ongoing internal campaigns for the party presidential flag bearer position following the death of a sister to one of the aspirants, Patrick Amuriat Oboi.
The party’s Electoral Commission Chairperson, Boniface Toterebuka Bamwenda, confirmed the decision and said the campaigns had been progressing well before the temporary halt.
Aspirants, including Amuriat and Budadiri West MP Nathan Nandala Mafabi, agreed to the pause in solidarity.
The FDC primaries are scheduled for 2nd July 2025, ahead of the party’s internal elections, which will be held during the National Delegates’ Conference on 31st July 2025.
By Alex Magala
30th June 2025
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