Justice Minister Norbert Mao faces a formidable challenge for the Democratic Party (DP) presidency from MP Richard Sebamala, setting the stage for a contentious delegates’ conference.
The upcoming DP delegates’ conference is expected to be highly competitive, despite the party’s long-standing commitment to democratic values and its motto, “Truth and Justice.” Masaka legislator Sebamala has declared his intention to contest Mao’s leadership, arguing that the party needs revitalization.
Mao, who has led the DP since 2010, entered a controversial cooperation agreement with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in 2022, a move that secured him the position of Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. DP Secretary General Gerald Siranda also benefited from the deal, securing a seat in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). The agreement was framed as a strategy to facilitate a peaceful political transition from President Yoweri Museveni’s rule.
However, Mao’s critics argue that he has failed to fulfill this promise. While he occasionally voices mild criticisms of the government, many within the DP believe he has become too comfortable in his ministerial role. Some party members feel betrayed, accusing him of prioritizing personal advancement over the party’s interests.
Sebamala, who represents Bukoto Central in Parliament, has made it clear that he will not seek to annul the cooperation agreement. Instead, he has positioned his candidacy as an effort to restore the DP’s internal democracy and refocus the party on the needs of its grassroots members, contrasting this with what he describes as Mao’s self-serving leadership.
When Mao aligned with President Museveni, many DP members had high expectations, hoping for greater political leverage and appointments. However, aside from Mao and Siranda, most party members saw little benefit, leading to widespread disillusionment and defections, primarily to the National Unity Platform (NUP). Many believe that the DP’s political relevance has diminished under Mao’s leadership.
Next month, the DP’s National Council and National Executive Committee will convene in Soroti City to determine the roadmap for the national delegates’ conference, where new leadership will be elected. While Mao is expected to seek re-election, he faces significant opposition, particularly from those who believe the party lost its direction under his stewardship.
Another potential flashpoint in the upcoming contest is the national electoral committee, currently chaired by Mutenyo, a known ally of Mao. Concerns have been raised about whether the electoral process will be conducted fairly.
Sebamala rose to national prominence after defeating then-Vice President Edward Ssekandi in the 2021 parliamentary elections, marking a significant political upset. Some within the DP see him as a potential savior who could restore the party’s credibility.
“I am here to make DP great again,” Sebamala recently declared on social media. He has emphasized that the party must embody its core values of truth and justice, not just within its internal leadership but also in advocating for transparent governance in Uganda.
“Government should operate in a simple and transparent manner that leaves no unanswered questions for its citizens,” Sebamala stated, underlining his vision for a more accountable leadership.
As the DP gears up for its crucial leadership contest, the battle between Mao and Sebamala is set to define the party’s future trajectory. Will DP members rally behind Sebamala’s call for change, or will Mao’s experience and political maneuvering secure him another term? The outcome of the delegates’ conference will shape not only the party’s leadership but also its relevance in Uganda’s evolving political landscape.
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