Uganda: Defections Shake NRM and FDC As Tororo Youths and Elders Join New Political Party

21 July 2025
Nile Post (Kampala)
By David Ochieng

A fresh wave of defections has hit Uganda's political scene, with a group of youths and elders in Tororo District announcing their withdrawal from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).

The defectors declared they had joined the newly formed People's Front for Freedom (PFF), citing frustrations over failed leadership and lack of grassroots focus.

Speaking at a press conference in Tororo town, the group accused their former parties of abandoning the values of service and accountability, choosing instead to pursue selfish interests.

"I was the first FDC chairman in Tororo County and regional coordinator for Dr. Kizza Besigye in Eastern Uganda and Karamoja. I've reflected deeply and realized many of our leaders were taking us for a ride," said Micheal Opili, a former FDC coordinator for the Eastern Region.

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Shadrack Odoi, a parliamentary aspirant for the Tororo County North seat, said the group is now mobilizing supporters to join PFF, which they believe offers a new, credible political alternative.

"We believe that with the experience within PFF, it is the only serious party that can serve this country and mentor young people ahead of 2026," Odoi said.

The group pointed to chronic failures in Uganda's education, health, and governance systems as reasons for their shift in allegiance.

"We're talking about freedom across all sectors -- health, education. The whole country feels captive. We call on Tororo youth to join us and be part of the change we seek," said Simon Peter Olweny, a youth leader and one of the coordinators of the PFF movement in the district.

Opili also urged elders to step forward and help nurture responsible leadership, warning that leaving politics in the hands of the unprincipled would endanger the country's future.

At the same event, the group demanded the immediate release of Dr Kizza Besigye, whom they described as the rightful leader of the opposition movement.

Preparations are now underway for the official opening of the PFF office in Tororo, scheduled for July 28.

Organisers say the launch will signal a new political awakening in the district, as more disillusioned citizens seek alternatives outside the mainstream political parties.

Read the original article on Nile Post.

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