The Democratic Party (DP) has officially begun the process of terminating its cooperation agreement with the National Resistance Movement (NRM), flinging the bromance Norbert Mao and President Museveni have been enjoying on the rocks.
The announcement follows a series of discussions and motions during the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Council meetings held earlier this week at the Soroti May 7 Hotel.
In a letter to DP President General Nobert Mao, the party's National Vice-President, Fred Mukasa Mbidde, outlined the party’s next steps in what promises to be a comprehensive and nation-wide initiative to formally sever ties with NRM.
“We have undertaken a thorough self-evaluation during the one-month assessment period as outlined in the alternative motion you presented," said Mbidde.
"Based on our findings, it is clear that the time has come to initiate the formal process of ending our cooperation agreement with the National Resistance Movement.”
The official process will begin today, April 7, 2025, following the completion of the assessment period.
Mbidde also laid out a detailed plan for the transition, which includes nationwide consultative meetings, caravans, and termination rallies aimed at reaching the grassroots level.
“We aim to engage our supporters and stakeholders across Uganda to ensure this transition is as transparent and inclusive as possible,” Mbidde explained.
The party’s leadership has emphasized the importance of effective communication and organization throughout the process.
“We are establishing a National Organizing Network dedicated to this effort, which will help us coordinate the nationwide consultations and rallies,” Mbidde added.
Additionally, DP plans to unveil new branding for its campaign, including an official name, slogan, and promotional materials, in an effort to clearly differentiate its future path from that of the NRM.
“This is not just about ending a cooperation agreement; it’s about taking control of our future,” Mbidde asserted.
“We are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and transparent political agenda, one that reflects the values of our members and the people of Uganda.”
The DP's leadership is committed to keeping all members of the National Executive Committee, National Council, and National Delegates Conference informed and engaged throughout the process.
“We want our entire party structure to be involved in this journey, from the grassroots to the highest levels of leadership,” said Mbidde.
As Uganda moves forward in a time of political transformation, the Democratic Party’s decision to part ways with the NRM signals a potential shift in the country’s political dynamics.
The next steps in this process will be closely watched as DP works to navigate a future independent of its long-time political partner.
However, Mr Mao has in the past lashed out at party members seeking an end to the agreement he signed with President Museveni in July 2022.
Mao, who walked out from State House on the day of the agreement as the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, last month hit out at party members opposing the cooperation agreement with NRM, accusing them of playing the "politics of untouchability."
"In Uganda, there are political cult leaders who believe that one can't talk to other political party members. That we call political untouchability," he said.
He also strongly dismissed any suggestions that he would step down from his leadership position as tensions within the party intensify.
"I will offer myself again to lead DP," he said.
His leadership, which began in 2010 after he succeeded John Ssebaana Kizito, has faced significant internal resistance, with several prominent figures exiting the party over disagreements with Mao’s direction.
Mao’s tenure has seen key party members, including Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze and Nyendo Mukungwe legislator Mathias Mpuuga, join rival opposition parties, with Mpuuga ultimately helping to found the Democratic Alliance (DA) after falling out with the National Unity Platform.