'This is not comedy, I am ready to take power' — FDC's Mafabi

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If you thought Nathan Nandala Mafabi is not serious about his presidential ambitions, think again.

“I am not a comedian,” the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate told cheering supporters in Butebo district on Thursday.

“I am in this campaign very seriously and ready to take power. That is why I am moving around the country seeking votes. 

"This is not comedy. I am campaigning for myself, and aim to change Uganda to [a country] which we can all live in happily and peacefully.”

The first-time presidential candidate, who is also the FDC secretary-general, was out to dismiss claims that his participation in next year’s general election is merely a political show.

He told a campaign rally at Kabwangasi sub-county headquarters that he is running a serious campaign, anchored on putting money in people's pockets.

One supporter had posed a question to him.

"Mr Nandala, we hear that you are in this campaign as a mere player. Is it true that you and Museveni are giving us political comedy in this campaign?”

Mafabi’s firm response drew applause from the crowd, many of whom expressed confidence in his determination to challenge the ruling establishment.

Mafabi and six other candidates are seeking to end President Yoweri Museveni's nearly four-decade rule. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party chairman is seeking re-election in early 2026.

Mafabi assured voters that their votes will be protected, but also urging them to turn out in large numbers on polling day.

“Nobody will attempt to steal our votes if you all go to the ballot and vote for me. Once we have overwhelming numbers, even the thieves will find it hard to tamper with the results. Remember to guard and protect your vote.”

Mafabi, who has represented Budadiri West County in Sironko district for 25 years, said it was time for a change of Uganda's top leadership.

“What Museveni has failed to do in 40 years cannot be achieved in just five more. He needs to step aside and allow new blood with fresh ideas to take over and correct his failures.”

Throughout his campaigns, the FDC frontrunner has positioned himself as the only candidate capable of steering Uganda to progress.

“Among all the eight candidates in next year’s presidential election, only one has the knowledge and experience to move this country forward, and that is me. I am the answer to all the problems Uganda is swimming in. Please support and vote for me.”

After his rallies in Butebo, Mafabi was scheduled to head to Pallisa district on Friday.

Jamal Wante, the FDC national vice-chairman, appealed to the people of eastern Uganda to rally behind Mafabi, saying it was time for the region to produce a president.

“Nandala Mafabi’s coming is our only chance. Let us support and vote for him.”

As of October 17, Mafabi remains the only presidential candidate to not have taken a break, having so far traversed 37 districts across Uganda.