We expect security personnel to cooperate and conduct themselves professionally. Those who choose to be reckless will be held accountable under the law
Nathan Nandala Mafabi, the Secretary General of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and a presidential hopeful for the 2026 general elections, has issued a stern warning to security agencies against interfering with the upcoming FDC party primaries and general elections.
Speaking during a meeting with FDC delegates from the Bukedi region at Mountain Inn Hotel in Mbale, Nandala emphasized the importance of a peaceful and fair electoral process. He cautioned that any errant security personnel who act unprofessionally or disrupt the elections will face legal consequences.
Nandala stressed that while security agencies have a duty to maintain order, they must operate within the confines of the law.
"We expect security personnel to cooperate and conduct themselves professionally. Those who choose to be reckless will be held accountable under the law,"Â he declared.
However, he also urged FDC supporters to work closely with security agencies by following the established electoral guidelines to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
Nandala, a prominent leader from the Eastern region, called on the people of Bukedi, Teso, Busoga, and Bugisu to unite behind his presidential bid, arguing that the region has long been sidelined in national leadership.
"The Eastern region has been marginalized for too long in key government programs and leadership. It is time for us to come together and vote for one of our own so that we can have a say at the national level,"Â he said.
His message resonated with delegates, many of whom expressed optimism about the possibility of producing a president from Eastern Uganda for the first time in the country’s history.
Ronald Mafabi, an FDC lawyer, reassured party members that a team of legal experts is on standby to assist any FDC supporters, candidates, or officials who face intimidation or harassment from state agencies during the elections.
"We have a team of lawyers ready to take up any case of unlawful arrests or harassment. If anything happens, report immediately so we can act,"Â Mafabi stated.
Joseph Lukanda, one of the delegates at the meeting, urged Eastern Ugandans to mobilize support for Nandala’s candidacy, emphasizing that this is a historic opportunity for the region.
"We must work tirelessly to ensure that one of our own becomes president. This is our time, and we cannot afford to miss it,"Â Lukanda said.
Nandala’s meeting with Bukedi delegates is part of his broader strategy to consolidate support in Eastern Uganda ahead of the FDC primaries and the 2026 general elections. His campaign is expected to focus on addressing regional marginalization, advocating for electoral integrity, and promoting unity among opposition forces.
As the race for 2026 heats up, Nandala’s warnings to security forces and his appeal for Eastern Uganda’s solidarity could shape the political dynamics in the coming months.
