The Forum for Democratic Change has criticised the government over what it describes as a widening gap between official Labour Day messaging and the realities faced by workers, with party president Patrick Oboi Amuriat warning that urgent action is needed to address unemployment, low wages, and the treatment of urban vendors.

At the Forum for Democratic Change headquarters in Najjanankumbi, Patrick Oboi Amuriat raised concern over what he called a growing disconnect between government rhetoric and the daily struggles of ordinary Ugandans.

Speaking during the party’s weekly press briefing, Amuriat said the spirit of Labour Day is increasingly being overshadowed by harsh economic realities affecting workers across the country.

He noted that while leaders marked the day with speeches and accolades, many workers continue to grapple with unemployment, low incomes, and limited opportunities.

Amuriat also highlighted the rising levels of youth unemployment, saying thousands of graduates are entering a job market that cannot absorb them, forcing many into informal sectors such as street vending and small-scale trade.

He criticised government enforcement actions against urban vendors, accusing authorities of carrying out evictions without clear relocation plans, compensation, or sustainable alternatives.

On the issue of wages, Amuriat rejected claims that increasing pay would discourage investment, arguing instead that better wages can stimulate economic growth by boosting household consumption.

The FDC reaffirmed its solidarity with workers across sectors, including teachers, healthcare workers, factory employees, informal traders, and unemployed graduates, insisting that they deserve tangible solutions rather than what it termed repeated promises made during Labour Day commemorations.