Delegates from various parts of eastern Uganda have officially chosen Patrick Amuriat as their preferred candidate for the presidency of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). These delegates represent six sub-regions, which are Bugisu, Bukedi South, Bukedi North, Sebei, Busoga, and Kyoga.
The endorsement event was held at the Mountain Inn Hotel in Namakwekwe, Mbale City Northern City Division over the weekend. Its primary purpose was to listen to Patrick Amuriat’s message. During the event, Emma Sebunyo, a delegate from Bulambuli district, highlighted that the competition for the party president’s position is between Moses Byamugisha and Patrick Amuriat Oboi.
Sebunyo pointed out that Amuriat has shown effective leadership, particularly in his efforts to unite the party and resist those who support Dr. Kiiza Besigye, the former FDC president, in undermining it. Delegates believe Amuriat is the right choice to continue as the party president. Samuel Owuma, a delegate from Busia district, also noted the successful collaboration between Patrick Amuriat and Nathan Nandala Mafabi as the General Secretary over the past five years, which has contributed to the party’s stability. Consequently, they see no reason to change the party’s leadership.
Patrick Amuriat Oboi, who is seeking re-election, encouraged delegates to vote for him on October 6th, 2023, during the delegate’s conference. He stressed the importance of working with Nandala to bring stability to the party amid the current conflicts and reassured delegates and party supporters, urging them to remain calm.
Amuriat dismissed concerns about the party disintegrating due to ongoing disputes within Besigye’s faction. Geoffrey Ekanya, the Tororo county member of parliament, urged all FDC delegates and supporters to participate in the delegate conference, where they will vote for the party’s leadership.
