Mao confirms DP’s full support for Party candidates ahead of 2026 election

16 September 2025, 3:29 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The President General of the Democratic Party (DP) and Minister of Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to fully supporting its candidates in the forthcoming elections.

Speaking to journalists today at the party headquarters in Kampala, Mao emphasized discipline and loyalty among members, reminding them of the importance of respecting party leadership.

“We don’t have enough time to argue with party members who are against the leadership. Why should you join a party you don’t agree with? Members must remember why they joined DP and respect the values and leaders of the party. We must create more space for young people. It makes no sense to have a degree without skills,” Mao said.

He further assured DP candidates of total backing during the campaign period and beyond. “As the Democratic Party, we are going to support our candidates in all ways during the campaigns. Those parties that claim to be the most prominent opposition forces should stop misleading supporters. And to our candidates, remember—you are not the founders of the party,” he added.

On ongoing disputes within the party, Mao cautioned members threatening to sue, warning they would face damages. He also used the occasion to call on voters in Kampala and across Uganda to elect leaders who can deliver tangible services, criticizing the city’s leadership over the past 15 years as ineffective.

“For Uganda to prosper, we need leaders who can negotiate with the central government. Kampala has had a ‘chief mourner’ kind of leadership for 15 years, and it has done almost nothing to improve the city,” Mao said.

The remarks come as the country prepares for the 2026 general election. The Electoral Commission recently confirmed that the nomination of presidential candidates will take place on 23rd and 24th September 2025. Mao confirmed that DP will be part of the exercise and is ready to field candidates.