Conservative Party presidential candidate Elton Joseph Mabirizi issued a stark warning about Uganda’s political state during the NTV Presidential Debate 2025, comparing the country to a vessel on the verge of collapse.
“Uganda is like a sinking boat in an ocean,” Mabirizi declared, arguing that meaningful political and economic transformation is impossible unless the country fundamentally restructures power.
“Authority currently belongs to one person. There is a strong need to establish regional governments,” he said, insisting that decentralising power is the only path to effective governance and national stability.
The debate, held at Serena Hotel in Kampala, brought together five of the eight presidential candidates who are seeking voter confidence ahead of the 2026 general elections. More than 1,023,034 viewers tuned in online, according to NTV.
We Have Mobilised 3 Million People
The Conservative Party candidate also expressed absolute confidence in his electoral prospects, warning the Electoral Commission against mismanaging the 2026 vote.
“If Justice Byabakama decides to give our win to another person, the three million people we have mobilised will rise and fight against that,” Mabirizi said, insisting that his support base is ready to defend their vote.
He further revealed past attempts to unite the opposition. “I sat with Kyagulanyi thrice in his house… I wrote to him twice, and I wrote to these presidential candidates to join hands, but they didn’t respond. So, what do you want us to do?” Mabirizi said.
Opposition Unity Question Sparks Mixed Responses
During the audience Q&A, MP Muwadda Nkunyingi asked the candidates if they would consider backing Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), given his broad popular appeal.
Maj. Gen. Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) signalled willingness to coordinate strategies: “We’re always open to discussion as ANT. If we sit and agree on strategies for both NUP and ANT, strategies could agree on strategies. I have no problem.”
Frank Bulira acknowledged Bobi Wine’s mobilisation power but argued that the broader struggle predates him. “I appreciate Bobi Wine for bringing this struggle to where it is, but this struggle started in the 1960s.… I’d be the person Bobi Wine should rally behind because I’m the solution to this country’s problems.”
Nandala Mafabi, representing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), offered a more reserved outlook: “You may be mobilising using music or guns like Museveni. There’s no measuring tool that you’re the best. So, we wait with time.”
The debate showcased sharp ideological divides, rising frustrations with governance, and growing calls for reform. Mabirizi’s vivid metaphor of Uganda as a “sinking boat” captured the urgency felt by many candidates and voters alike.
