By Kabuye Ronald
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has condemned what he described as arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions without trial, vowing sweeping judicial and governance reforms if elected president.
Addressing supporters in Kalangala District, Mafabi cited the continued detention of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye—held for more than a year without trial—as emblematic of what he called politically motivated arrests under President Yoweri Museveni’s administration. Mafabi said such actions signal fear of political competition and undermine the rule of law.
Mafabi pledged to strengthen the Uganda Human Rights Commission and restore independence to the judiciary. He promised a comprehensive audit of court cases and judgments to ensure accuracy, accountability, and timely delivery of justice. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” he told the crowd, arguing that court backlogs and prolonged detentions erode public trust.
The FDC candidate also vowed to immediately release all political prisoners upon assuming office, saying no Ugandan should be jailed for their political beliefs or affiliations.
Turning to livelihoods on Lake Victoria, Mafabi promised targeted support for fishermen, including the provision of fishing gear, improved security, and expanded market access to boost incomes and local economies. He raised concerns about persistent theft of fishing equipment, alleging that some incidents involve suspected fishermen from neighboring countries.
Mafabi expressed skepticism over the effectiveness of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in safeguarding fishing communities, suggesting possible complicity in the losses. He said a future FDC government would ensure transparent and civilian-led protection of fishing assets.
In a separate address to fishermen in Kalangala, Mafabi accused the government of what he termed “theft and corruption” in the fishing sector. He criticized the importation and taxation of fishing gear that is later impounded or destroyed, with fishermen arrested for using it.
“These actions deprive Ugandans of enjoying their natural resources,” Mafabi said, condemning the deployment of security forces on the lake as punitive rather than protective. He pledged to reverse the policies, resolve fishermen’s grievances, and ensure communities benefit fairly from the country’s resources.
Mafabi’s tour included visits to Buggala Island and surrounding areas, where he rallied support for his presidential bid and outlined his platform centered on justice reforms, civil liberties, and economic empowerment.
