A total number of 1317 Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) members have crossed over to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Kasese District.
In a function that was held at Hima playground, Hima Town Council in Kasese District on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, the new NRM recruits were received by the State Minister for Rwenzori Triangle, Alice Kaboyo, Kasese District Members of Parliament and other ruling party leaders.
Minister Kaboyo urged the newly converted members to mobilize other colleagues who have remained in FDC to join the NRM party in order to benefit more from the government programs.
The Minister contributed Shs30m to Kyabarungira Buhuhira Concern Cadres SACCO that the converts formed, and promised to offer them any other support that may be required.
The Minister also encouraged them to get involved in income generating activities so as to take advantage of the available government programs.
“Our new converts, now that you have seen the goodness of NRM, I appeal to you to mobilize your colleagues who are still in FDC to join NRM in order to enjoy more party benefits. I also encourage you to get involved in income generating activities and take advantage of government programs like the Parish Development Model. Am contributing Shs30m to your SACCO, but more support will be given when needed,” she said.
NRM delegates in Kasese welcomed the new converts stating that the massive exodus signifies a great Political shift in Kasese in favor of the ruling NRM.
Previously, Kasese District was a well-known FDC stronghold. In the 2016 general elections, the FDC overpowered the ruling party NRM and other political parties with five constituencies having FDC party Parliamentary representatives.
In the same year, most government political positions including those at the local council level in Kasese District were being occupied by FDC with good representation at the lower local government.
However, FDC as a party lost popularity in 2021 after losing three Parliamentary seats, Local Council V seat and 44 Councillors to council out of 68 to NRM in the 2021 general elections.
Political analysts argue that the FDC party is continuing to lose fame in the district because of the combined efforts from NRM leaders and other counterparts. Experts also explain that the various government programs that have been extended to the region have attracted many to NRM as they are direct beneficiaries of the projects hence picking interest in the party.
