Deep divisions have emerged within the Democratic Party (DP) as Vice President for Northern Uganda Elia Alitia accused Secretary General Gerald Siranda Gerald of unilaterally making decisions regarding the upcoming National Delegates Conference (NDC).
In the letter dated April 23, Alitia challenges the legality and transparency of key processes led by Dr. Siranda, including the announcement of new nomination fees, profiling of delegates, and the constitution of the election organising committee.
Alitia questioned the legitimacy of raising nomination fees for presidential candidates from the previously approved Shs 5 million to Shs 10 million claiming no formal National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting was held to authorise the revision.
“You announced that Expression of Interest forms are available… Why do Presidential Candidates Pay 10 million and yet what has been approved by the NEC was Shs 5 million?” Alitia wrote, demanding to know “whose Secretary General” Siranda was serving.
She also raised concerns over the profiling of 80% of delegates despite ongoing lower-level elections in many districts.
Citing lack of facilitation and procedural transparency, Alitia suggested the process may have been selectively implemented, undermining party unity and democracy.
Calling for immediate action, Alitia demanded the suspension of all NDC-related activities, a full audit of the structure-building process, and the appointment of an independent Election Committee approved by the NEC.
She also urged all NEC aspirants involved in organising the elections to step aside due to a “direct conflict of interest.”
“This action demonstrates unfairness,” Alitia said, questioning Siranda’s authority to oversee elections while being a candidate himself.
She further criticised the use of multiple payment channels for nomination fees including cash raising concerns over potential misuse of funds.
“Does DP have a bank account to encourage transparency and avoid theft or recycling of cash?” she asked, pointing to national Electoral Commission practices as a model of accountability.
The letter was also copied to the President General, National Chairman, Legal Advisor, and other top party organs, signalling a widening rift at the highest levels of party leadership.
There has been no immediate response from Dr. Siranda or other NEC members regarding the allegations.