As Uganda gears up for the 2026 elections, the Democratic Party (DP) seeks to reassert itself on the political stage after a period of dormancy and controversy surrounding its alliance with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Once a formidable opposition force, the DP now faces internal discord and public skepticism that threatens its chances of electoral success.
The party's internal tensions have intensified following President Norbert Mao's controversial decision to accept a ministerial position within the NRM government.
The move has sparked factionalism among DP members, with several MPs vying for leadership and many feeling betrayed by the party's perceived alignment with the NRM.
"There are concerns that our involvement with the NRM was a betrayal of our core values," said Richard Ssebamala, MP for Bukoto Central.
The 2022 agreement with the NRM, which saw some DP members join the government, remains a divisive issue.
While returning defectors work to reform the party from within, significant dissent persists.
"Our goal is to reenergize the party and prepare for the 2026 elections, but the path forward is fraught with challenges," noted Kennedy Mutenyo, Chairperson of the DP Electoral Committee.
Political analysts question the DP's ability to regain its footing.
"The party must navigate its internal conflicts and recalibrate its strategy to address its declining support base," said Prof. Sabiiti Makara, a political analyst.
"There’s a real risk that the DP could emerge from these forthcoming elections even weaker if it doesn’t restrategize."
To revitalize its support, the DP plans to re-register members and open new offices across Uganda.
However, the collapse of its youth wing, the Uganda Young Democrats (UYD), has created a significant void.
"Restoring our base and attracting new supporters while managing internal conflicts will be key to the DP's revival," added Gerald Siranda, another party leader.
With the 2026 elections approaching, the Democratic Party faces the urgent task of addressing these challenges to remain competitive.
"Voters are eagerly waiting to question Mao and the current leadership on their strategies and past decisions," Ssebamala emphasized.
Ssebamala has announced his intention to challenge Mao for the DP presidency at the upcoming delegates' conference, where the party will select its presidential flag bearer for the 2026 elections.
As the DP gears up for a crucial electoral contest, the spotlight is on its ability to resolve its internal crises and mount a credible challenge to the NRM.