Kampala, Uganda — Democratic Party (DP) President Norbert Mao has formally declared his intention to seek a fourth term at the helm of Uganda’s oldest political party, as DP concluded nominations ahead of a highly anticipated national delegates’ conference later this month.
The nomination exercise, which saw over 100 aspirants submit their forms for various party leadership roles, marks a critical juncture in the DP’s attempt to recover from internal wrangles and defections that have plagued it in recent years.
Speaking from the DP headquarters in Kampala, Mao took aim at his critics, particularly those questioning his loyalty to the party.
“Some of those accusing me of selling the party are the same ones now rushing to pick nomination forms,” he remarked. “You cannot undermine the party and then want to lead it.”
Mao, who has led the DP since 2010, is seeking re-election at a time of significant transition. The party’s poor showing in the 2021 general elections and a controversial 2022 cooperation agreement with the ruling NRM deepened divisions, raising questions about the party’s direction and identity.
Despite this, party officials are touting the nomination process as a signal of renewed energy. Aspirants from across the country participated, including Alitia Elia from West Nile, who is contesting for the position of Vice President for Northern Uganda.
“The DP has a strong legacy, and I believe with committed leadership, we can reclaim our position in Uganda’s politics,” Alitia said.
Push for Structural Renewal
Mao has positioned himself as a reformist who steered the party through turbulent times. His renewed bid is framed as part of a broader effort to restructure and modernize DP’s approach to politics.
“The only way forward is inclusiveness and pragmatic politics. We must stop doing politics like it’s warfare and start building something lasting,” he said in a follow-up statement.
DP Secretary General Gerald Siranda confirmed the close of nominations and promised transparency throughout the next phase.
“This process has been open and fair. We’re publishing the vetted candidates soon, and we’re optimistic that the national delegates’ conference will be a turning point for our party,” Siranda noted.
The conference will bring together delegates from across Uganda to elect a new leadership team and shape future party policy.
As Mao prepares to defend his leadership, political observers will be watching closely to see if the party’s grassroots members still back him—or if his challengers will seize the moment to usher in change.
