Patrick Amuriat, the current president of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has announced his intention to seek reelection as the party’s president. His decision adds to the ongoing uncertainty within the opposition party, which has been grappling with internal divisions.

Amuriat, who leads one faction within the FDC, called on the rival Katonga outfit to challenge his leadership through democratic means rather than attempting to stage a coup. He emphasized the importance of conducting an election to determine the party’s leadership.

He also expressed his willingness to lead charges against Dr. Kizza Besigye, the party’s founding president and a prominent opposition figure. Amuriat stated that while it might be time for them to part ways, the leadership in Najjanankumbi (the party’s headquarters) seeks unity.

In response, Francis Mwijukye, the interim treasurer general of the Katonga faction, criticized Amuriat for his handling of the party’s problems and accused him of behaving similarly to President Museveni, whom they are trying to remove from power. Mwijukye expressed disappointment with Amuriat’s leadership and warned that chances for dialogue within the party were diminishing.

He also dismissed Nathan Nandala Mafabi’s self-proclaimed bid for the presidency in 2026, emphasizing the need to address internal issues within the FDC and the broader opposition before discussing national-level presidential ambitions.

The FDC has been experiencing internal strife, with competing factions and leadership disputes. A recent conference called by the FDC national chairman, Wasswa Birigwa, resulted in the suspension of Amuriat’s leadership, further deepening the party’s crisis.

The situation within the FDC remains fluid, and the party is facing challenges as it attempts to navigate its internal divisions and chart a unified path forward.