Kikuube FDC chairperson defects to Movement, says will give Museveni party card

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Kikuube District Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) chairperson Donozious Byaruhanga has formally defected to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.

He has declared his intention to hand over his party card to President Yoweri Museveni during his campaign visit to the district. 

Byaruhanga, a 20-year FDC veteran and Kyangwali sub-county councillor, announced his switch at the launch of NRM flagbearer Florence Natumanya’s parliamentary campaign in Mahamba village on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Byaruhanga cited internal divisions and a lack of vision as his primary reasons for leaving FDC, an Opposition party that has been fraught with internal divisions, which led to its split.

As a result of disagreements, the party was divided into two factions: One under the former party president Dr. Col. (rtd) Kiiza Besigye and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago at Plot 6 Katonga Road in Kampala and another under party president Amuriat Patrick Oboi and secretary general Nathan Nandala Mafabi at Najjanankumbi FDC Headquarters in Kampala.

“The party has lost focus due to infighting, spawning factions like the Alliance for National Transformation, Katonga, Najjanakumbi, and the People’s Front for Freedom. FDC is riddled with self-seekers who’ve abandoned its original mission,” he said, accusing the party of failing to resolve conflicts internally.

He praised NRM’s unity and vision, stating, “NRM has kept its promise of national cohesion, which is why it remains strong. I’m ready to contribute to this vision and will present my party card to President Museveni next month.”

Incumbent Kikuube District Woman Member of Parliament Natumanya hailed Byaruhanga’s decision as a “return to the winning side.” 

She urged independent candidates to abandon divisive campaigns and support NRM’s flagbearers. 

“Unity ensures peaceful elections. Those nominated independently should step down to avoid chaos,” she said, addressing the challenge posed by independent candidate Joan Kyamuhendo, who is contesting Natumanya’s seat.

Natumanya highlighted her second-term priorities: Boosting healthcare, education, road infrastructure, and combating land grabbing. 

“The NRM government has delivered—roads, schools, and poverty reduction programs prove this. We deserve your continued support,” she said.

Warning against violence

Kikuube’s national security task force chief Brig. Gen. Omero Tingira Irumba Ateenyi cautioned against election-related violence. 

“We’ll deploy forces to ensure voters cast ballots freely. Those planning chaos should know we’re prepared,” he said, addressing youth and community leaders.