Africa-Press – Uganda. Richard Sebamala, a Democratic Party presidential candidate and Bukoto Central MP, has expressed concerns over the high nomination fees charged to those seeking leadership positions within the party.
Addressing a joint media briefing at Parliament, Sebamala alleged that the fees are a discriminatory way of eliminating those who have the party’s best interests at heart.
“The 10 million shillings for the Party President, 5 million for the Vice President, the 5 million for the General Secretary, among other fees for the other positions, is a discriminatory way of eliminating those that have the Party at heart,” Sebamala stated. He questioned the fairness of these fees, arguing that they may limit opportunities for aspiring leaders.
Sebamala also alleged that some candidates, particularly those in Norbert Mao’s camp, were nominated without paying the required nomination fees. “Some of the candidates in the Norbert Mao camp were nominated without paying the nomination fees as required by the rules,” he claimed.
He demanded that the party provide an accountability of all nomination fees paid by candidates.
Sebamala further alleged that there is a plot to eliminate him from the presidential race, citing a requirement that candidates must have served for five years as a member of the National Executive Committee. “I am aware of a plot to eliminate me from the race on the claim that I have not served for five years as a member of the National Executive Committee,” he stated.
Sebamala has threatened to petition the Electoral Commission and Justice Byabakama over the DP delegates’ conference resolutions. He emphasised the need for the party to stand by its principles of truth and justice.
In response, DP Secretary General Dr. Gerald Siranda dismissed Sebamala’s claims as baseless and lacking facts. “Sebamala’s claims are baseless, with no facts at all,” Dr. Siranda stated.
The controversy surrounding the nomination fees and the alleged plot to eliminate Sebamala highlights the internal challenges facing the Democratic Party.
As the party navigates these issues, it remains to be seen how the leadership will address these concerns and ensure a fair and transparent process for all aspirants.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
