There’s Uganda after elections, says Nandala in New Year message

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Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate James Nathan Nandala Mafabi has used his New Year message to call for peaceful elections, national unity and a democratic transition, urging Ugandans to reject violence as the country heads to the polls in just two weeks.

Campaigning across Kayunga and Buikwe districts on December 31, 2025, Nandala addressed heightened political tension, where some voices have portrayed January 15, 2026, as a do-or-die moment for the country. He acknowledged the significance of polling day but firmly dismissed violence as a route to political change.

“January 15 is a determining day for our lives,” Nandala said during an interview along the Kayunga–Buikwe campaign trail. “I want Ugandans to know that it’s time for change. I want all of you to go and vote and protect your vote. Nobody should go away.”

He stressed that the coming election must mark a peaceful turning point, warning against individuals who glorify fear or armed confrontation.

“We want to change government without a gun. We don’t want violence in our country, not from politics or individuals. We don’t want to destroy our country,” Nandala said, adding that Uganda has endured enough after decades under the same leadership.

“There’s Uganda after elections. That’s why we are telling people who are talking about any form of pre- and post-electoral violence not to think about it. In this place, everybody can own guns, but we don’t want that path. Forty years is good enough. What you have done is enough,” he emphasised.

In a reflective moment, the FDC flag bearer noted that leadership is temporary and must give way to renewal and fresh ideas.

“Even the best actor has to leave the stage. There’s Uganda after us. Even me, after me, there’s Uganda,” he said.

Nandala’s New Year message came as he returned to Kayunga and Buikwe, areas of strong personal and political significance. Buikwe is where he launched his presidential bid on September 29, 2025, and he described the district as home, saying the reception he received reaffirmed his belief that Ugandans are ready for change.

“This is home. I have come to tell our people that it’s time for change. You have seen the roads packed with people saying, ‘We are all coming, and we’re going to vote you.’ People are eager,” he said.

He said crowds lining the roads from Kayunga through Nazigo and Kangulumira signalled growing momentum for the opposition as voters count down to election day.

Addressing supporters, Nandala acknowledged the economic hardship facing many households, while urging voters to turn out in large numbers and embrace a peaceful transition through the ballot.

With just two weeks remaining before Ugandans choose their next five-year government, Nandala took a break on January 1 and is set to resume his campaign on Friday, January 2, in Fort Portal city, Kabarole, Kakumiro and Kibaale districts.