Democratic Party (DP) President General and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has defended his party’s cooperation agreement with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), saying the move reflects a shift in strategy—not a surrender of DP’s ambition to take power.
Speaking during the party’s weekly press briefing at its headquarters in Mengo, Mao emphasized that all political parties aim to govern, but differ in how they pursue that goal. He stressed that DP remains focused on winning power through lawful and peaceful means.
“Our destination remains the same; what changes is how we get there,” Mao said, noting that the party is committed to constitutionalism and dialogue rather than confrontation.
He contrasted DP’s approach with what he described as more aggressive tactics adopted by some opposition groups, reiterating that his party prefers engagement within the legal framework.
At the same time, Mao expressed concern over the recent arrests of several opposition figures, including Erias Lukwago, Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, Dr. Kizza Besigye, and Miria Matembe. He criticized alleged incidents of unlawful detention, torture, excessive force, and delayed prosecutions, warning that such actions weaken the rule of law and public trust in the justice system.
Despite these concerns, Mao called on political actors, security agencies, and citizens to resolve disputes through legal channels, revealing that the issue is expected to be discussed at the upcoming Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) summit.
He also underscored the need for peaceful political transitions in Uganda, noting that past transfers of power have often been marred by violence, loss of life, and setbacks to national development.
Mao said his decision to work with the NRM was partly driven by the need to foster dialogue and stability, adding that the cooperation agreement has already delivered some positive outcomes.
He further advocated for national dialogue and reconciliation, describing them as critical to building unity and ensuring smoother political transitions in the future.
On party matters, Mao announced plans for a week-long DP leadership retreat, which will bring together Members of Parliament, the National Executive Committee, and senior officials to evaluate the party’s progress and map out its strategy for the next five years.
Responding to critics within DP who accuse him of weakening the party through the NRM partnership, Mao dismissed the claims, insisting the agreement has strengthened the party while keeping it aligned with its long-term goals.
