By Andrew Irumba Katusabe
Mbarara, Uganda | June 2, 2025 — Minister Norbert Mao has been re-elected as the President General of the Democratic Party (DP) for a fourth consecutive term, in a vote marred by chaos, internal wrangles, and accusations of betrayal from within the party ranks.
The heated election took place during the party’s national delegates’ conference held at Asamar Hotel in Ruti, Mbarara City, where Mao garnered 969 votes. His rivals, Dr. Michael Lulume Bayiga and Alitia Elia, received 339 and 52 votes, respectively. The final declaration was made by Kennedy Mutenyo, the DP’s presiding officer.
Fights, Frustration, and Chaos
The event, which had started on a hopeful note with hundreds of delegates arriving from across the country, quickly descended into disorder. Tensions flared during accreditation and voting, with some delegates openly clashing and exchanging blows over alleged voter list manipulations and irregularities.
At one point, police had to intervene to restore calm as rival factions engaged in verbal and physical confrontations. Accusations flew between supporters of different camps, with some calling the process a “stage-managed coronation.”
Allegations of Betrayal and Dealings With Museveni
Mao’s re-election has not been without controversy. A section of the party’s members has long accused him of “selling the soul of the Democratic Party to President Yoweri Museveni”, especially after accepting a ministerial appointment in the NRM-led government in 2022, which many saw as a betrayal of opposition ideals.
Critics argue that Mao’s continued leadership is influenced by state interests, pointing to a recent meeting he led with a DP delegation to Gen. Salim Saleh in Gulu, just days before the conference. The visit raised eyebrows, with members alleging that the DP has been “hijacked and mortgaged to the regime.”
“These elections are a sham. Mao sold the party when he went to bed with Museveni. What we witnessed today is not democracy—it’s a power auction,” said a visibly frustrated delegate from Buganda region who preferred anonymity.
The Campaign Trail
- Early May 2025 – Mao launched his re-election campaign, emphasizing experience and continuity.
- Mid-May – Dr. Lulume Bayiga entered the race, promising a return to ideological purity and internal democracy.
- Late May – Alitia Elia joined the contest, calling for generational leadership and restoration of party values.
- May 30 – June 1 – Delegates arrived in Mbarara for pre-election proceedings, marred by logistical confusion and accusations of foul play.
- June 2 – Voting commenced amid tight security, with visible friction among camps throughout the day.
Final Results
| Candidate | Votes Received |
|---|---|
| Norbert Mao | 969 |
| Dr. Michael Lulume | 339 |
| Alitia Elia | 52 |
Mao Responds
In his post-election address, Mao dismissed the allegations, stating: “Those who claim the party is sold have no alternative ideas. I am here because the majority believe in my leadership. The Democratic Party is alive and will rise stronger.”
Yet, even as he celebrated, the divisions within the party remain deep, with many members walking out in protest and vowing to challenge the outcome in party structures—or even court.
What’s Next?
As Uganda inches closer to the 2026 general elections, DP’s internal wounds could prove costly. Whether Mao can reunite the fractured house and restore confidence among the disillusioned factions remains to be seen.
