
“Just like in 2016, we are not going to put a presidential candidate. We want to redirect our party resources into positions we are going to win. The next general election is not going to be about political parties; it is going to be about the new Uganda. So, for us we want to prepare DP for the new Uganda. We think, if possible, we can even support the sitting government to continue with its candidate (Museveni) as we prepare for what is going to come as DP. We don’t want to waste time in the next election” – Democratic Party Vice-President Fed Mukasa Mbidde (22.09.2025)
The Democratic Party (DP) of 2025 could just become a part of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) organization and be a branch of it. The “No Surprise” Agreement between the party has really unravelled it and proves now the usage of it. The DP party is just the vessel for the leadership to secure positions and offices but not being a threat or even opposing the ruling regime.
The DP has become the “Good DP” and they are serving the interest of the NRM. The DP isn’t challenging the NRM or trying to test Museveni. The party itself is just becoming a small fraction and supporting organization of the President. Norbert Mao and everyone else in just trying to secure themselves and not galvanizing it.
This is a stagnation and a forced recognition of the marriage made with NRM. The DP is just a party who is in a beneficial arrangement with the NRM. That’s why it does this and it will be shielded from the worst. As the regime will see it is a “competitor” but also allow it. Just for the sense of multi-partyism, but we know it is all a game. A prefixed and predetermined score, which ensures the DP a few slots and hegemony, but not a threat to the NRM in the slightest. As they know the DP is good and they are following the correct line.
Mao and Mbidde is now practically a part of the NRM. They will not challenge or try to take something from the NRM. Their DP is walking softly ahead of the 2026 General Election. They are standing by Museveni and his candidacy. That’s just show their sentiment and that they are not an opposition party.
For everyone following this isn’t shocking, because the DP is drifting and becoming a natural part of the NRM. We are just seeing it happening in real time. Mao and his ilk are just being used, and they are giddy about it. Thinking they are clever, but the moment their usefulness is over. The NRM will drop them and never look back.
The DP party should be reminded of just that, but I wouldn’t count on it. Peace.











