Kasese, Uganda — A wave of blue flags, revving boda bodas, and Rwenzururu drumbeats shook the hills of Kasese District over the weekend as the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) made a bold campaign entrance, despite heavy military and police deployment.
Supporters lined the Bunyangabu-Kasese highway, waving dry banana leaves and chanting songs in welcome, undeterred by the looming threat of force.
Armed security personnel tried, but failed, to block FDC’s presidential flagbearer, James Nathan Nandala Mafabi from addressing crowds in Bunyangabu.
After a tense standoff, Mafabi was permitted to speak briefly at the town roundabout, less than a mile into Kasese District.
“There is no clear reason why they tried to silence us. But the people are here, and they are ready to listen,” said one FDC’s mobilizer on the ground.
Despite the looming fear of tear gas or worse, the rally took on a celebratory tone as traditional Rwenzururu dances broke out, with many tying banana leaves around their waists in a symbolic show of solidarity.
From Bunyangabu to Kyarumba Town Council, Mafabi made strategic stopovers in Rugendabara, Kisinga, Kaberere, and Kinyamaseke, drawing energetic crowds who danced and sang in praise of the opposition party.
During the manifesto launch at Kyarumba Playground, Mafabi delivered sharp criticism of the ruling NRM government, citing 40 years of “missed opportunities and corruption.”
“You have fertile soils, but you suffer from floods and bad roads,” he told the crowd. “You have rich culture, but no infrastructure to uplift your lives. This must end.”
He pledged to equip health facilities with drugs and medical supplies, reduce electricity tariffs and taxes, revive agricultural cooperatives, and to introduce cable cars to connect Kasese’s mountainous terrain.
The campaign unfolded under a cloud of state surveillance. While the Uganda Police Force claims its deployments are to “maintain law and order,” local residents see them as a move to intimidate opposition gatherings.
Mafabi, undeterred, called on voters to tick the FDC’s symbol “Key” come January 14, 2026, emphasizing the power of the people to shape their economic and political destiny.
“This election is about reclaiming your voice. It is about wealth creation, not just for a few at the top, but for every farmer, every trader, every child in Kasese,” Mafabi said.
He also touched on shared cultural ties, pointing to the historical and geographical link between his native Mt. Elgon and the Rwenzori region, saying, “I am one of you—and I will serve you best because I understand your pain.”
