Mao says DP elections peaceful

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Democratic Party (DP) president general Norbert Mao, who is also justice minister, has dismissed claims that the party’s recent national delegates’ conference in Mbarara was marred by chaos, insisting that the event was "largely peaceful."

Addressing journalists during a weekly media briefing at DP headquarters on Balintuma road in Kampala city on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Mao accused political rival MP Richard Sebamala (Bukoto Central) of stage-managing disruptions after being disqualified from the race.

“Our friend from Bukoto Central ferried people to go and interrupt the elections,” Mao said.

“The majority of delegates were seated, wondering what the mob was trying to do. We had to transport his hooligans back home since he abandoned them after we disrupted their plans.”

The conference saw Mao re-elected for a fourth term as party president general despite loud protests and dramatic scenes from Sebamala's camp.

Mao, however, downplayed the scuffles, saying media attention only magnified minor incidents.

Sebamala was disqualified from the race for allegedly failing to meet the party’s requirement of being an active member for the past ten years — a decision that sparked outrage among his supporters.

Speaking during a televised interview, Sebamala claimed that over 700 pre-ticked ballots in favour of Mao were found hidden in a room.

When asked what he would say if he met Mao face-to-face, Sebamala said, "I Would greet him, but I’d also tell him he embarrassed us and needs to clean up his mess."

Mao, on his part, extended an olive branch to disgruntled members, calling on them to return and rebuild the party.

“I’ve lost and won elections before. When you congratulate the winner, you remove a lot of poison from your system,” he said.

“To those who lost, don’t worsen the situation — come back home, and let’s re-group.”

DP vice-president general (Buganda region) George Kagimu admitted the region came back from the conference divided, especially after two Buganda-based candidates competed for the top seat.

“There was anger in Buganda, and we were divided. But Buganda is a vibrant region, and we can still take the lead,” he said.

Kagimu urged DP leaders from the region to stop airing grievances on social media and instead pursue internal dialogue.

“We need to sit down and find solutions,” he said. “Let’s focus on the upcoming elections, support our candidates, and provide financial backing where needed.”