Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) heavyweight Nandala Mafabi on Monday took his campaign message to Nawanago Town Council, urging residents to vote for change and accusing the current government of failing to improve livelihoods in Busoga region.
Addressing a gathering of supporters, Mafabi questioned government claims that poverty in Busoga has significantly reduced, pointing to continued economic hardship across households despite the region having over 45 MPs in Parliament.
“My mothers and fathers, the president has been telling us that poverty is no more here, but we all know this is not the reality,” he said. “You have nothing to call your own. Even your sugarcane has been taken from you.”
Mafabi criticized what he called excessive taxation and predatory moneylenders charging exorbitant interest rates, arguing that such pressures have left families deeper in poverty.
He also took aim at President Yoweri Museveni’s long tenure, alleging that the head of state avoids using the road network in the area because “he fears the very roads he claims to have constructed.”
Outlining his policy proposals, Mafabi promised to establish an Agricultural Bank dedicated to supporting farmers, whom he said have been neglected for decades.
He pledged to ease the burden on boda boda riders by offering motorcycles at Shs2 million, payable over five years at Shs400,000/=.
To address youth unemployment, Mafabi proposed giving university graduates Shs1 million immediately upon completion of their studies as a financial cushion while seeking work.
On healthcare, he vowed to equip hospitals with medicines, machines, and qualified doctors, saying no one would be charged for medical services and no patient would be referred abroad for treatment due to lack of facilities.
“My people, give me your votes so that I can change our country and chase these thieves,” Mafabi urged, asserting that President Museveni “has nothing more to add” after nearly four decades in office.
He encouraged residents to turn up early on election day, vote, and stay at polling stations to safeguard the results. “No one will steal our victory,” he said.
Mafabi’s remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the next general election, with opposition figures ramping up their regional mobilization efforts.
