Nandala concludes Western Uganda campaigns with security standoff in Mbarara

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With just one month left to Uganda’s January 15, 2026, general elections, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate James Nathan Nandala Mafabi concluded his campaign trail in the Ankole sub-region, amid a standoff with security forces in Mbarara City.

Nandala’s final day in Ankole began in Kakoba Division, where he addressed supporters on key political issues, including the continued incarceration of veteran opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye. 

As his convoy set off towards the city centre, police mounted a blockade just a few metres ahead, triggering a brief scuffle between FDC supporters and security personnel.

The situation quickly escalated as traffic ground to a halt.
Some police officers were seen pleading with drivers to move their vehicles, while others struggled to contain the growing crowd. 

With access to the planned rally venue blocked, Nandala opted to address supporters from the middle of the road, near Mbarara Central Market, drawing large crowds of traders, commuters and passers-by.

The standoff unfolded along McAllister Street, where police and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel attempted to block the FDC convoy.

The heavy security deployment sparked resistance from party supporters, aided by local residents who accused authorities of deliberately frustrating opposition activities in the city.

Police insisted that the FDC was not expected in Mbarara, citing an earlier campaign roadmap submitted to the Electoral Commission.

Nandala, however, maintained that the itinerary had since been revised and duly communicated. 

Security also refused to allow a procession through the city, arguing that it would disrupt business activities.

Despite the tension, many residents abandoned their work to listen to the impromptu address, while others watched from shop fronts and balconies overlooking the street. 

Nandala blamed the police for the chaos that ensued, accusing them of provoking disorder instead of facilitating peaceful political activity.

“Our manifesto is very clear. We shall immediately amend the Constitution to restore a two-term limit and set the age limit at 70 years. None of us would ever do what has been done before removing term limits and age limits. I am asking Ugandans for just five years to fix the economy, and that will be it,” he said.

After the address, supporters spontaneously broke into a procession along the main street, dancing to Kadodi tunes and chanting songs in praise of the candidate as security opted to just follow the procession observing traffic and security.

Escorted by security personnel, the convoy later exited Mbarara and proceeded to Lyantonde District, where Nandala addressed residents on governance, corruption and constitutional reform.

He sought to allay fears that he would overstay in power if elected president.

Nandala concluded his Western Uganda campaign activities in Lwengo district and is expected to cross into Rakai and Kyotera today, December 16 as he continues his nationwide presidential campaign trail.