While acknowledging the initial benefits of President Museveni’s plan, Nadduli claims that FPU operations have become counterproductive. He cites daily complaints from fishermen and local leaders about extortion, excessive force, and alleged involvement of soldiers in illegal fishing activities.
Nadduli recommends returning the responsibility of enforcing fishing regulations to the Ministry of Fisheries and the fishermen themselves. He warns that continued FPU presence could damage the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s support among fishing communities, once loyal supporters of the party.
To illustrate his point, Nadduli referenced the 2021 elections in Nakasongola, where opposition candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) secured 33% of the votes compared to Museveni’s 65%. He attributes this shift partly to dissatisfaction with FPU operations.
Nadduli’s call for withdrawal highlights the complex balance between environmental protection, economic interests, and political considerations in managing Uganda’s vital lake resources.