NAJJANANKUMBI, KAMPALA 18 February 2026– The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has officially responded to the defection of its Chief Whip in Parliament, Hon. Yusuf Nsibambi, to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), describing the move as “disappointing but not surprising.”
In a strongly-worded statement issued on February 18, 2026, FDC President Patrick Oboi Amuriat dismissed the notion that Nsibambi’s exit would weaken the party’s resolve. Instead, Amuriat revealed that the Mawokota South legislator had already been under the party’s microscope for “concerning tendencies.”
According to the party leadership, Nsibambi was already facing an internal disciplinary process under Article 12 of the FDC Constitution. The primary grievance cited was his unauthorized engagement with the State House.
”For some time, the party had observed concerning tendencies, including his engagement at State House without the knowledge or clearance of the party leadership,” the statement read.
The FDC noted that with his formal crossing to the NRM, the internal disciplinary proceedings are now “overtaken by events,” as Nsibambi now falls under the jurisdiction of his new political party.
Replacing the Chief Whip
The defection leaves a vacancy in the high-profile position of Chief Whip in Parliament. The FDC leadership confirmed that consultations are already underway to find a replacement. The party maintains that it will exercise its right to appoint a successor “without delay” to ensure parliamentary business remains uninterrupted.
Addressing the broader political implications, Amuriat rejected claims that the party is in crisis. He emphasized that the FDC is built on “ideology and structures” rather than individual personalities.
”Our party has faced and overcome similar departures before, and each time we have emerged stronger, more focused, and more determined,” Amuriat stated.
The party also signaled a shift in its internal strategy moving forward, pledging to: Strengthen internal discipline, Improve vetting processes for leadership positions, and Focus on recruiting “ideologically grounded” members.
Hon Nsibambi’s defection comes days after he led a group of opposition actors to a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni in State House, a move that has rattled the opposition ranks. In his remarks following the meeting, he indicated that not only FDC members attended the meeting, but also other opposition party members attended.
The defection comes at a time of heightened political realignment in Uganda following the 2026 general elections. While Nsibambi cites a desire for “peace and national unity” for his move, the FDC remains firm that its struggle for democratic change continues unabated.
