By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Democratic Party (DP) President and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Nobert Mao, has stated that the party will not tolerate any attempts to create confusion within its ranks.
“DP is determined to address political confusion within the party,” he said.
Mao accused certain individuals within DP, whom he referred to as “political nomads,” of attempting to disrupt the party’s leadership. Despite existing mechanisms to resolve disputes, he noted that some members have deliberately acted against the party’s interests.
“These are educated people who know the party constitution. I know how to fight, but I can’t fight them back,” he remarked.
“In DP, there is ample room to resolve issues without resorting to unnecessary conflicts. That is the approach I expect from those who are spreading all sorts of misinformation,” he added.
His remarks come amid speculation that the party’s top leadership, led by Mao and Secretary General Gerald Siranda Blacks, is allegedly planning to increase nomination fees for various positions, including the presidency, from 5 million shillings to 20 million shillings. This is said to be part of preparations for the DP National Executive Committee’s structural renewal elections next month.
Speaking to the media at the party headquarters on Balintuma Road in Rubaga Division, Kampala, on Tuesday, Mao dismissed these claims as malicious and baseless, stating that neither the party president nor the secretary general has the authority to unilaterally determine nomination fees.
“We are constantly encouraging people to step up and lead this party. Why would we raise fees to block their way?” Mao questioned.
“No, such thing has not happened! And in any case, fees are approved by the National Executive Committee.”
He further alleged that certain individuals within the party are being used as conduits for spreading false rumors.
“I see a lot of bogus things written on social media, including allegations that the nomination fee for DP president is now 50 million shillings. How can that be true when even the electoral commission does not require such an amount?” Mao said, dismissing the reports.
He urged party members to participate in the upcoming structural elections, assuring them of his commitment to upholding the DP constitution. Additionally, Mao warned that eligibility to participate in the structural elections will be restricted to only members registered in the party national register.
DP National Organizing Secretary Herbert Lutagwere announced that the nomination process for grassroots structures began today and will close in July 2025.
