By TV10 Gano Mazima Desk
Uganda’s opposition politics is undergoing a significant transformation as nine Members of Parliament formerly aligned with the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) have officially defected to the newly formed People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). The PFF is a political platform spearheaded by veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
The announcement was made by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among during the national budget reading at Kololo ceremonial grounds on Thursday. Among extended her best wishes to the members as they exercise their freedom of association, as enshrined in Article 29 of the 1995 Constitution.
The nine lawmakers who have joined PFF are some of FDC’s most recognizable and outspoken figures, hailing from different parts of the country. They include:
– Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda – Kira Municipality
– Hon. Kabuusu Moses – Kyamuswa County
– Hon. Nyakato Asinasi – Hoima City Woman MP
– Hon. Dr. Nicholas Kamara – Kabale Municipality
– Hon. Katusabe Atkins Godfrey – Bukonjo County West
– Hon. Muhindo Harold Tonny – Bukonjo County East
– Hon. Namanya Naboth – Rubabo County
– Hon. Francis Mwijukye – Buhweju County
– Hon. Aol Betty Ochan – Gulu City Woman MP
This latest exodus has reduced FDC’s strength in the 11th Parliament from 32 to 23 MPs, further diminishing its influence and organizational credibility in Uganda’s multiparty politics. The defections are a manifestation of a long-simmering crisis within the FDC, which intensified in 2023 amid a bitter leadership fallout.
Dr. Besigye, once the unifying face of Uganda’s organized opposition, parted ways with the FDC leadership and has since rallied disenchanted party members and grassroots structures under the People’s Front for Freedom. The PFF is positioning itself as a revitalized opposition alternative, raising questions about whether it can consolidate enough momentum to challenge NRM’s grip on power and NUP’s rising influence.
Political analysts believe that Uganda could be witnessing the early stages of a major opposition realignment. “This is not just a breakaway – it’s a statement,” says political analyst Sarah Kyomuhendo. “FDC’s identity crisis has given birth to a new opposition nucleus, and it’s drawing its legitimacy from old wounds and fresh hope.”
As the ruling NRM prepares for another campaign cycle under President Yoweri Museveni, and the National Unity Platform (NUP) continues to capture youthful energy and urban bases, the opposition is increasingly fragmented.
Whether PFF can offer a credible third force or simply deepen the disunity remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: FDC’s days as Uganda’s main opposition party are fading. With Besigye’s new vehicle gaining traction and key MPs publicly shifting allegiance, the countdown to 2026 may usher in not only an electoral contest but a complete redefinition of Uganda’s opposition politics.
