Abed, Mpuuga Struggles to Draw Crowds as Democratic Front Rallies Falter Ahead of 2026 Elections

With the 2026 Ugandan elections fast approaching, pressure is mounting within the Democratic Front as two of its key figures—Mathias Mpuuga and Hon. Abed Bwanika—face unexpectedly low turnout during their recent campaign activities. What were intended to be energizing processions and rallies in several districts instead exposed a worrying lack of public enthusiasm for the party’s top contenders.

In multiple locations across the country, Mpuuga and Bwanika were met with noticeably thin crowds. Streets that were expected to fill with party supporters remained largely quiet, forcing the candidates to push through speeches to sparse audiences. The turnout was so low in some areas that only a few loyalists waving Democratic Front colors could be spotted.

For Mpuuga—currently at the helm of the Democratic Front—and Bwanika, a seasoned opposition politician, the tepid response marks a significant setback. Both leaders hoped to rely on their long-standing political reputations to reignite support, but the recent turnout suggests that their influence may be waning at a crucial moment.

Internal Concerns and Strategy Questions

The disappointing rallies have stirred debates inside the party, with insiders questioning whether the Democratic Front’s message is resonating with Ugandans. While Mpuuga is known for his bold criticism of government excesses and Bwanika for his grassroots engagement, their current strategies appear to be falling flat.

Analysts point out that the Democratic Front has struggled to distinguish itself from other opposition movements, especially the National Unity Platform (NUP). Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) continues to dominate the opposition space with unmatched popularity, particularly among the youth. His ability to attract massive crowds has overshadowed competing figures, making it harder for other opposition leaders—Mpuuga and Bwanika included—to gain momentum.

Broader political mood complicates mobilization

Uganda’s heavily polarized political climate has also contributed to voter fatigue. Years of political tension and unfulfilled promises have led many citizens to doubt whether any opposition group can deliver meaningful change. This skepticism may be dampening enthusiasm for newly launched campaigns, including those of the Democratic Front.

Additionally, ongoing struggles within the opposition to form a united coalition have fragmented voter bases. Attempts to rally behind a single, cohesive opposition movement have repeatedly faltered, leaving figures like Mpuuga with a divided and uncertain following.

Contrasts with NUP’s momentum

While the Democratic Front faces an uphill battle, NUP continues to ride a wave of grassroots support. Kyagulanyi’s rallies regularly pull massive crowds, fueled by his focus on issues such as unemployment, corruption, and human rights violations. The contrast between NUP’s energetic public engagements and the Democratic Front’s sluggish events has become increasingly difficult to ignore.

Campaigns face funding and visibility setbacks

Weak turnout does more than hurt morale—it impacts campaign resources. Rallies serve as platforms for visibility, fundraising, and volunteer mobilization. Without strong public showings, both Mpuuga and Bwanika may face challenges in financing their campaigns and scaling operations as election day approaches.

Candidates Stay Defiant Despite Setbacks

Despite the troubling signs, both leaders have pledged to keep going. Mpuuga insists that numbers are not the only measure of commitment:
“We may be few today, but we are grounded in the belief that Uganda deserves change. We move forward,” he declared during one of the rallies.

Bwanika echoed this optimism, framing the slow start as a normal hurdle in a long campaign journey:
“Change never comes on a silver platter. We will continue speaking to the people and building a movement that reflects their hopes,” he said.

A Critical Turning Point for the Democratic Front

As the 2026 race inches closer, the party’s flag-bearers will need to revise and strengthen their strategies to remain competitive. Their ability to convert skepticism into support—and to present themselves as credible alternatives to both the NRM and the NUP—may determine whether they stay relevant in Uganda’s evolving political landscape.

For now, the low rally turnout serves as a cautionary signal: the Democratic Front must work harder to connect with voters, build unity, and offer a compelling vision if it hopes to stay in the race.