KAMPALA – The Member of Parliament for Mawokota South, Yusuf Nsibambi, has crossed from the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Nsibambi, who has been serving as FDC Deputy President for the Central Region, was formally received at the NRM headquarters in Kampala on Wednesday. He was presented to the party leadership by the NRM First National Vice Chairperson (Female), Anita Among.
Among welcomed the legislator into the ruling party, describing him as an experienced and capable leader whose decision was informed by his appreciation of the NRM’s track record in government. She said the party had gained a knowledgeable and resourceful individual who believes in working with a team focused on service delivery.
Dressed in the NRM’s signature yellow, Nsibambi pledged his readiness to serve. He said he was prepared to take on any responsibility assigned to him and to contribute to what he described as the struggle for peace and national development.
His defection follows a recent meeting he led involving several opposition MPs and President Yoweri Museveni, a move that sparked public debate.
Speaking to media, Nsibambi defended the engagement with the President, dismissing suggestions that such meetings are motivated by financial gain.
He said it is a misconception that interacting with the Head of State automatically results in personal benefits, emphasizing that his mission was driven by public interest rather than private reward.
The Mawokota South legislator noted that he was encouraged by President Museveni’s willingness to listen to concerns regarding individuals detained in the aftermath of election-related unrest. According to Nsibambi, discussions included appeals for the release of certain detainees, particularly those in need of rehabilitation.
He further revealed that his engagement with the President has been ongoing, not a one-time encounter, stating that he met Museveni three times last year. He described the President as a leader elected by the people and underscored the importance of dialogue.
In his remarks after formally joining the NRM, Nsibambi expressed gratitude for the reception and pledged unwavering commitment to his new political home.
He assured party leaders of his dedication to strengthening and sustaining a winning team, saying he was determined to make a meaningful contribution. Nsibambi stressed that he did not want to be associated with setbacks but instead aimed to build on existing achievements and promote unity and progress.
He also apologised for raising additional remarks after formal proceedings had concluded, explaining that he felt compelled to clarify his position in the presence of the party secretary.
