In a recent development surrounding the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), President Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Secretary General Nathan Nandala Mafabi have categorically denied allegations of receiving money from President Museveni, the NRM chairman. However, both leaders declined to reveal the source of the party's funds, citing a long-standing policy not to disclose certain financial backers, including some within the ruling government.
Amuriat defended the party's stance, stating, "As FDC, we have a policy not to disclose our sources," emphasizing that it would be unjust to accuse anyone without providing substantial evidence to support such claims. The FDC President acknowledged that the party has faced challenges, particularly regarding funding for the 2021 general elections.
To meet financial needs, the party had resorted to borrowing from undisclosed friendly sources without interest. He assured that all funds were accounted for and presented to relevant committees before the elections.
However, the allegations made by FDC member Ibrahim Ssemujju against Mafabi and Amuriat have sparked an investigation by the elders' committee to uncover the sources of the party's funding for the 2021 elections. Ssemujju's claims implied that Mafabi's group received a significant amount of money from an unclear source, potentially undermining the party's principles.
In response to the accusations, Amuriat reiterated that internal disagreements within the party have been addressed through dialogue and hard work, even amidst major departures of senior leaders, including former party president Mugisha Muntu and Secretary General Alice Alaso. He stressed that channels for resolving internal issues remain open, and the party's leaders are actively engaged in finding solutions.
Meanwhile, four-time presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye has spoken out about the situation within the FDC, acknowledging that the party is currently under a form of state capture. Besigye asserted that substantial sums of money have consistently flowed into the party during elections, with delegates often accommodated in high-end hotels, not by the party but by candidates.
Although Besigye hinted at Museveni's involvement in the funding, he refrained from providing further details. He mentioned the existence of a committee investigating the matter, which is expected to release a comprehensive report soon. Until the report is made public, Besigye deemed it unfair to disclose the details he shared with the committee.
The unfolding situation has prompted heightened interest and concern within the political landscape, raising questions about the transparency and integrity of financial affairs within the FDC. As the elders' committee delves into the investigation, all eyes are on the future of the opposition party and how it will navigate these accusations while maintaining its core principles.
