Kampala-The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice Chairperson for Central region and Mawokota South MP, Yusuf Nsibambi, has officially crossed to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing what he described as a lack of clear direction and coordination within the opposition.
Speaking at the NRM secretariat on Wednesday, Nsibambi said his decision follows deep reflection on the state of opposition politics, which he argued had become disorganised and ineffective.
“There is no proper direction, we have never sat as opposition parties to harmonise positions on key national issues. Decisions are taken without consultation, and that confusion has affected our credibility before the electorate,” he said.
Nsibambi, who previously served as FDC Electoral Commission chairperson and later as the party’s deputy president for the central region, said he had been actively involved in opposition politics for years. He also served as Shadow Minister for Works and Transport before taking up the role of Opposition Chief Whip.
He noted that disagreements and fragmentation within FDC had over time led to the emergence of splinter groups associated with Betty Kamya, Mugisha Muntu, and Erias Lukwago.
Reflecting on the recent elections in Mawokota South, Nsibambi conceded defeat, saying the outcome prompted him to reconsider his political path.
“No one believed I could lose Mawokota South, but I sincerely lost,” he said. “The electorate told us they were tired of the kind of politics we were advancing.”
He criticised what he described as confrontational tactics within sections of the opposition, including walkouts from Parliament and the mobilisation of youth for protests without a unified strategy.
“You cannot build a political programme on confusion. Instead of presenting development programmes and clear budgets to the people, the focus shifted to defiance without coordination,” he said.
Nsibambi said he had since engaged leaders within the NRM and concluded that working with the government offered a more constructive path.
“We have a duty and responsibility to work harmoniously in a peaceful manner. We need tranquility for development. Chaos will not help our country,” he said, pledging to serve in any capacity within the ruling party and to formally return his FDC membership card.
Welcoming him to the party, NRM National Vice Chairperson (Female) and Speaker of Parliament, Rh.Hon. Anita Annet Among, said several opposition and independent MPs had expressed interest in working with the NRM.
“Outside of the independents, we have MPs from the opposition who have approached us and are ready to work with the NRM. Even members from other parties are willing to work with us,” she said.
“Our home is big enough to accommodate everybody. All those who want to join the NRM should know that the party is open.”
Among thanked H.E Yoweri Museveni for mentoring her and said Nsibambi’s decision reflected confidence in the ruling party’s record.
“He has said that he did not previously know what the NRM had done, but since joining Parliament he has seen its work and now wants to be part of the team that delivers for this country,” she said, confirming that eight other Independent MPs had officially joined the party.
These include; Hon. Muhammed Ssentayi, Hon. Gyavira Ssemwanga, Hon.Charles Ngabirano, Hon.Jovia Kaliisa and Hon.Bernard Mutebi Mugoya among.
NRM Secretary General Rt.Hon.Richard Todwong described the defection as consistent with the party’s historical mission.
“For many years he has been in the FDC and was looking for ways to join the NRM. This speaks to the historical mission of the party. The 1986 struggle that brought the NRM to government was strengthened and reinforced by comrades who were once on the other side,” Todwong said.
“That is how the NRM survives and strengthens itself — by recruiting. It is part of our DNA. Forces we once disagreed with come, we reconcile, and we work together.”
Todwong said the NRM focuses on issues that unite Ugandans, including roads, education, health, peace and security, and wealth creation.
“Those who do not believe in the NRM should realize that our manifesto summarizes the needs of all Ugandans. We are intentional and consistent. We do not shout like others; we plan deliberately and act purposefully,” he said.
