As the Democratic Party (DP) prepares for its National Delegates Conference in mbarara next week, Bukoto Central MP Richard Sebamala is set to challenge the current party president, Norbert Mao. This presidential election is seen as pivotal, perhaps reshaping the party’s direction as the 2026 general elections approach. Sebamala’s campaign has energized supporters with promises to return the DP to its core opposition values. Though, he faces meaningful hurdles from mao’s faction, which has been accused of employing manipulative tactics to secure a victory.

Sebamala’s campaign has criticized several actions allegedly taken by Mao and his allies, Gerald Siranda and fred Mussa Mbidde, claiming these actions are designed to unfairly influence the election’s outcome.

Allegations of Vote Manipulation

Reports suggest that Mao’s group has withheld the official delegates list, choosing instead to contact delegates individually. Sebamala has denounced this strategy as a clear attempt to control the voting process. Further complicating matters, Mao’s team has reportedly imposed stringent requirements for delegates, demanding they present membership cards, national IDs, and passport photos.these requirements could potentially disenfranchise many long-term members who may not have updated membership documents.

“This is a calculated plot to silence our supporters,”

“This is a calculated plot to silence our supporters,” Sebamala stated, emphasizing that the party’s outdated membership system is being used as a tool for exclusion.

Concerns of External Interference

Unconfirmed reports have also surfaced, alleging that three delegates from certain districts were taken to Gulu to meet with Gen. Salim Saleh, brother of President Yoweri Museveni.These reports have raised suspicions of external interference in the DP’s internal affairs. While there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, they have heightened tensions, with Sebamala’s supporters accusing Mao of exploiting his connections with the ruling national resistance Movement (NRM).Mao’s 2022 cooperation agreement with the NRM, which resulted in him obtaining a ministerial position, has been a source of considerable controversy. Critics argue that this alliance has contributed to the DP’s decline, evidenced by its reduction from 15 Members of Parliament in 2016 to just 6 in 2025.

Sebamala’s Response and Campaign Efforts

Despite these challenges, Sebamala’s campaign has launched a strong response. His team has been actively mobilizing supporters across the country, establishing hotlines and regional committees to independently verify the delegate lists. A significant achievement for Sebamala’s campaign was when his legal team successfully petitioned the electoral commission to allow choice forms of identification, such as witness testimony, to ensure broader participation in the election. A campaign representative stated, “We will not let their tactics derail our fight for a new DP.” Sebamala has also been actively using social media, with hashtags like #SebamalaForDP gaining traction, notably in buganda, where Mao is accused of promoting tribal divisions.

the leak of an audio recording, allegedly capturing Mao’s allies discussing strategies for rigging the vote, has further fueled Sebamala’s campaign. However, the authenticity of the recording remains unverified. As the conference draws near, Sebamala’s team is preparing for potential last-minute challenges, with a legal unit ready to challenge any attempts to disqualify delegates. Political analysts anticipate a close contest, suggesting that Sebamala’s grassroots support could potentially outweigh Mao’s established influence within the party.

If Sebamala is triumphant, his victory could signify a resurgence of the DP’s opposition stance, distancing it from its current alliance with the NRM. As delegates gather in Mbarara, the focus will be on whether Sebamala’s determination and strategic planning can overcome the obstacles and lead the Democratic Party into a new chapter.