Africa-Press – Uganda. Democratic Party President Norbert Mao has officially declared his bid for a fourth term, as the party concluded nominations ahead of its national delegates’ conference later this month.
Over 100 aspirants submitted nomination forms to contest various leadership positions, marking a pivotal moment in the party’s effort to revive its structures after years of internal upheaval.
Speaking at the party headquarters shortly after filing his nomination papers, Mao dismissed critics who have accused him of betraying the party, calling their actions contradictory.
“Some of those accusing me of selling the party are the same ones now rushing to pick nomination forms,” Mao said. “You cannot undermine the party and then want to lead it.”
Mao, who has led Uganda’s oldest political party since 2010, is seeking to extend his tenure during a critical time of transition.
The party has struggled with internal divisions and high-profile defections, particularly in the run-up to the 2021 general elections, but is now looking to chart a new course through what it calls structural renewal.
The upcoming national delegates’ conference is expected to elect a new leadership team to steer the DP through this recovery phase.
Aspirants from across the country took part in the just-concluded nomination exercise, signalling renewed interest in the party’s direction.
Among the contestants is Alitia Elia from West Nile, who is vying for the position of Vice President for Northern Uganda.
Alitia expressed optimism about the party’s revival and stressed the importance of strengthening its foundation.
“The DP has a strong legacy, and I believe with committed leadership, we can reclaim our position in Uganda’s politics,” he said.
The Democratic Party, once a dominant force in Uganda’s post-independence politics, has in recent years faced criticism over its relevance and strategic direction.
Mao’s cooperation with the ruling NRM government under a working arrangement signed in 2022 deepened the rift between factions within the party, with some members accusing him of diluting the DP’s opposition credentials.
However, Mao insists his leadership has kept the party alive during difficult times, and he now argues that the path forward lies in inclusiveness, restructuring, and pragmatic politics.
The DP’s Secretary General Gerald Siranda confirmed the successful closure of nominations and said the list of vetted candidates would be published ahead of the delegates’ conference.
“This process has been transparent, and it is a sign that DP is a living political force. We are ready for renewal,” Siranda said.
The national delegates’ conference is expected to attract representatives from all regions and will play a key role in shaping the party’s future policies and leadership.
With Mao’s re-election bid on the table, the conference may also test whether his hold on the party remains firm or if discontent among the ranks could translate into leadership change.
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