FDC presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has pledged to make the Constitution more accessible to ordinary Ugandans by translating it into local languages, a move he says will empower citizens and reduce unlawful detentions caused by ignorance of the law.
While addressing a press conference before launching his campaign tour in Jinja City on Thursday, Mafabi said that too many Ugandans are unaware of their constitutional rights, a gap he blames for frequent violations by both law enforcement and citizens alike.
“People are rotting in jail because they don’t know their rights. My government will prioritize translating the Constitution so every Ugandan, regardless of literacy level or language, can understand it,” Mafabi said.
He added that the interpretation will also aid in resolving community disputes, which often escalate due to lack of legal awareness.
Motorcycles for Households: A Shs 5 Billion Promise
In a separate rally held in Bugembe, Mafabi unveiled a bold economic initiative: to enable every Ugandan household to acquire a motorcycle, popularly known as a boda boda, within two years of his presidency.
The plan involves a government-backed loan scheme where households pay Shs 2 million for a motorcycle, and the government covers the remaining Shs 3 million from a dedicated Shs 5 billion fund.
“Boda bodas are the most efficient means of transport in Uganda today. Under my government, they’ll be within reach for every home to boost mobility and economic productivity,” he told cheering supporters.
Current market prices for a new motorcycle average Shs 3 million, making Mafabi’s subsidy proposal an ambitious but potentially game-changing policy for the transport-reliant population.
Clash with Police in Jinja
Despite being on the official Electoral Commission schedule, Mafabi’s campaign was briefly disrupted by police in Jinja City, leading to tense confrontations between his supporters and law enforcement.
Campaigns were planned for key areas including Ambercourt, Masese, Mafubira, Bugembe, and Mpumudde. However, police claimed the rallies would interfere with city business operations, leading to their intervention.
The FDC camp accused authorities of political interference and unfair obstruction of their right to campaign. However, they later proceeded to Wakitaka Playground – Northern Division Jinja City.
