Norbert Mao Defends DP’s Direction, Clarifies NRM Cooperation

Democratic Party (DP) President and Justice Minister, Hon. Norbert Mao, has spoken about the party’s internal dynamics, cooperation with the National Resistance Movement (NRM), and the upcoming DP delegates’ conference.

Clarifying DP’s Relationship with NRM

Hon. Mao dismissed criticisms that the DP is aligned with the ruling NRM party. He explained that political relationships vary, ranging from cooperation to alliances, coalitions, or mergers.

“DP is in cooperation with NRM,” Mao stated, emphasising the strategic nature of this relationship.

Taking a swipe at critics, Mao remarked, “I wish there was a tax on stupidity; Uganda would be a very rich country.”

He defended the decision to engage in dialogue with the government to advocate for transition and electoral reforms, noting, “To be relevant in Uganda, you must talk the language of Norbert Mao or the language of DP.”

On Buganda’s Role in National Politics

Mao highlighted the need for Buganda to work collaboratively with other regions for greater national legitimacy.

“When Buganda acts alone, they provoke a pushback from the rest of the country. Buganda and Uganda must engage; we cannot afford a zero-sum game,” he noted, urging unity over division.

Preparing for the Delegates’ Conference

The DP leader provided detailed insights into preparations for the upcoming delegates’ conference, emphasising adherence to constitutional procedures.

He clarified the composition of delegates, which includes: Members of the National Council, Parliamentary group members, Chairpersons, women leaders, and youth leaders from each district and two additional representatives from every constituency.

Mao assured members that delegates would be vetted by a credentials committee and formally invited by the Secretary-General’s office.

Leadership and the Future of DP

Reflecting on his tenure as DP President, Mao affirmed his commitment to the party’s principles and dismissed notions of personal ownership.

“DP is not my thing. One day, there will be a DP without Norbert Mao, just like there is now a DP without the eight founders,” he said.

He underscored that all party positions remain open for competition and expressed pride in the current generation of DP leaders.

“We have succeeded because we ended the era of people taking DP as their playground,” Mao declared, adding that Buganda remains a strategic focus for the party as its birthplace.

On Bail and Justice

Addressing President Museveni’s remarks against police bonds, Mao defended bail as a constitutional right essential for a fair trial.

“When the President says police should not give bonds, he may be looking at it from the lens of the victims. We will advise him accordingly if instructions are given on the law,” he said.

Mao’s address underscored the DP’s resilience, strategic direction, and commitment to its foundational principles, while also reaffirming its readiness to adapt and compete in Uganda’s evolving political landscape.