Norbert Mao, the enigmatic president of the Democratic Party (DP), has once again found himself at the center of controversy, this time for attending the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership retreat. Mao’s presence at the event, which was reportedly meant to strategize the party after winning the general elections, sparked widespread criticism from his own party members and opposition supporters, who accused him of betraying the DP’s principles.
However, Mao has defended his attendance, explaining that he was officially invited in his dual role as Justice Minister and party leader. He emphasized that his participation was not a sign of allegiance to the NRM, but rather an opportunity to engage with the ruling party and advocate for the DP’s interests.
Mao serving as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, a position he was appointed to by President Yoweri Museveni in July 2022 following a cooperation agreement between the DP and the NRM. He has been the President of the Democratic Party (DP), Uganda’s oldest political party, since 2010.
A History of Unpredictability.
Mao’s decision to attend the NRM retreat is not an isolated incident. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take unconventional paths, often ruffling feathers within his own party and the broader opposition movement.
Born on March 12, 1964, in Gulu, Mao’s entry into politics was influenced by his experiences as a student leader and activist. He rose to prominence in the 1990s as a vocal critic of the NRM government, eventually becoming a key figure in the DP.
Mao’s leadership style has been described as mercurial, with his decisions often sparking controversy and debate. In 2011, he led the DP into a contentious alliance with the NRM, a move that was widely criticized by opposition supporters. The alliance was short-lived, and Mao eventually returned to the opposition fold.
A seasoned politician, Mao has contested the presidency three times (2011, 2016, and 2021). He was a member of Parliament for Gulu Municipality (1996–2006) and Chairman (LC5) of Gulu District (2006–2011), where he played a critical role in peace talks between the government and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
A Balancing Act
Mao’s decision to attend the NRM retreat is likely a calculated move to position himself and the DP for future negotiations with the ruling party.
Mao has always been walking a tightrope, trying to maintain his party’s opposition credentials while also engaging with the government.
The DP leader has long advocated for a more inclusive and consultative approach to politics, often calling for dialogue between the government and opposition.
His attendance at the NRM retreat can be seen as an extension of this approach, as he seeks to build bridges and create opportunities for his party.
Some observers speculate that Mao’s engagement with the NRM could be a precursor to a potential speakership bid in the next parliament. With the NRM retaining a majority, Mao is eyeing a deal that would see him become Speaker of Parliament, a position that would give him significant influence over the legislative agenda.
He can also negotiate his path into the next cabinet for the next five years if speakership interests aren’t met.
Mao formally announced his bid for Speaker of the 12th Parliament in February 2026, having recently won the parliamentary seat for the Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu District.
Mao’s academic and professional background is impressive, with a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University and a stint as a Yale World Fellow (2003). He’s fluent in Luo, Luganda, Runyankole, and English, and has served as the chairman of the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) summit.
The Jury is Out
Mao’s actions have sparked intense debate, with some accusing him of selling out to the NRM, while others see him as a pragmatist trying to navigate a complex political landscape. As the DP leader continues to chart his own course, one thing is certain: Norbert Mao remains one of Uganda’s most unpredictable and intriguing politicians.
The real question is: will his gamble pay off, or will it backfire? Only time will tell.
For now, Mao remains steadfast, insisting that his actions are guided by a commitment to the DP’s principles and the interests of Ugandans.
