By Isaac Wandubile
Kalangala District became the center of political attention as Forum for Democratic Change presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi strongly criticized the government over what he described as widespread corruption and exploitation in the fishing industry and years of neglect in transport infrastructure.
While addressing fishermen during his visit to the islands, Mafabi accused the government of operating a system that allows fishing gear to be imported and taxed, only for security agencies to later impound and burn the same equipment and arrest fishermen who use it. He said the practice amounted to outright theft and reflected deep-rooted corruption within the ruling administration. According to Mafabi, the deployment of security forces on Lake Victoria has turned fishing communities into zones of fear, depriving Ugandans of the right to benefit from their natural resources.
He assured residents that an administration under his leadership would end what he called the harassment of fishermen and put in place policies that protect livelihoods while ensuring sustainable use of the lake. He said fishermen would no longer be treated as criminals for trying to earn a living.
Mafabi also expressed concern over the state of transport in Kalangala, saying the poor condition of water transport exposed residents to unnecessary risks. He faulted the government for failing to provide adequate ferry services despite having been in power for decades, noting that the small and overstretched Kalangala ferry causes long delays and complicates emergency medical referrals. He said it was unacceptable that island residents are forced to wait for hours to access critical services.
The FDC candidate pledged that his government would prioritize water transport by introducing water ambulances, increasing the number and capacity of ferries, and tarmacking 200 kilometers of roads on the islands to improve mobility and access to services. He said improved transport would stimulate economic activity and save lives.
Outlining his broader manifesto, Mafabi said his administration would focus on improving social services, including education and healthcare, and strengthening support for vulnerable groups. He reiterated his proposal to provide a monthly allowance of 60,000 shillings to older persons aged 65 years and above as part of efforts to improve social protection.
He called on voters in Kalangala and across the country to support his presidential bid, saying the upcoming election presented an opportunity to end corruption, restore accountability, and ensure that all Ugandans benefit from the country’s resources.
