“I Will Fight So Hard To See That Erais Lukwago Doesn’t Win The Kampala City Mayoral Race, I Will Even Sponsor People To Stand Against Him” Nandala Mafabi Vows

As the 2026 general elections approach, Uganda’s political scene, particularly in Kampala, is heating up. The race for the Kampala City Mayoral seat is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested, with FDC presidential flag bearer Hon. Nandala Mafabi vowing to do whatever it takes to prevent Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago from retaining his position. For Mafabi, the contest is not just political—it is personal, reflecting deep divisions within the opposition and longstanding tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.

In a recent meeting with senior FDC officials, Mafabi voiced his frustration over Lukwago’s role in the split that led to the formation of the People’s Front for Transformation (PFF). According to reports, he believes that had Lukwago not encouraged Dr. Kizza Besigye and others to form PFF, FDC would still stand as a united, formidable opposition. This division, which weakened FDC politically, remains a source of resentment for Mafabi, who is now determined to ensure Lukwago’s defeat.

Mafabi’s stance is uncompromising: “Even if it’s to sponsor a different candidate from another party, I will do it until he is defeated completely.” His statement underscores the bitter rivalry between the two and signals that Mafabi is willing to support any strategy to unseat the current mayor.

FDC has nominated Ibrahim Kasozi as its candidate for Kampala’s Mayoral seat. Yet many analysts question Kasozi’s chances against Lukwago, whose popularity and political experience in the capital remain formidable. This perceived disadvantage has only intensified Mafabi’s resolve to prevent Lukwago from maintaining control over Kampala.

The internal struggles of FDC have been widely documented. Once one of Uganda’s most influential opposition parties, it has been weakened by divisions—particularly those linked to Lukwago’s involvement in PFF’s formation. Mafabi’s criticism of Lukwago reflects the broader internal crisis that continues to challenge FDC’s relevance and effectiveness in national politics.

The political environment in Kampala has grown even more complex for Lukwago. Officials from the National Unity Platform (NUP) have reversed earlier plans to withdraw from the Mayoral race, instead throwing full support behind Eng. Balimwezo, a candidate now seen as a significant challenger. This strategic shift has created a united opposition front, adding pressure on Lukwago as he contends with multiple rivals backed by influential political forces.

NUP’s endorsement of Balimwezo is likely to be decisive, as the party’s support base in the capital could sway the election. Lukwago, a long-serving mayor, now faces the dual threat of FDC’s Kasozi and a consolidated opposition, reportedly making the upcoming campaign one of the most challenging of his career.

The unfolding developments highlight the intensifying rivalries within Uganda’s opposition and the growing tension between FDC, NUP, and Lukwago’s camp. With less than a year until the elections, Kampala’s mayoral race has become a critical battleground—not just for city leadership, but for which political force can dominate Uganda’s capital in 2026.

As campaigns heat up, all eyes are on whether Mafabi’s vow to defeat Lukwago will succeed or if the Lord Mayor will retain his grip on power amid mounting challenges. The outcome could have lasting implications for Uganda’s political landscape.