Ssenyonyi, Democratic Party Accuse President of Favoritism

The Democratic Party (DP) in Uganda has accused its president, Norbert Mao, of favoritism in his handling of party leadership positions. The allegations stem from Mao’s recent appointment of new party officials, including the Secretary General, Deputy Secretary General, and National Treasurer. Several DP members have expressed concerns that these appointments were made based on personal preferences rather than merit or party principles. “Mao has always played favorites, and this is just another example,” said John Ssenyonyi, the DP’s Secretary General who was recently replaced. “He has appointed individuals who are loyal to him personally, even if they lack the necessary experience or qualifications.” Other DP members echoed Ssenyonyi’s concerns, alleging that Mao had ignored the party’s established recruitment and selection processes. They accused him of sidelining senior and experienced party members in favor of younger, less qualified individuals. “Mao has turned DP into his personal fiefdom,” said Michael Mabikke, the former DP President. “He has centralized power around himself and created a culture of fear and intimidation.” Mao has denied the allegations of favoritism, claiming that his appointments were based on the qualifications of the individuals involved. He accused his critics of engaging in “political witch hunts” and trying to undermine his leadership. “I have a mandate from the party to make these appointments, and I have done so in the best interests of DP,” Mao said. “Those who are unhappy can leave the party if they wish.” The allegations of favoritism have strained relations within DP and raised concerns about the party’s future. Some members have threatened to challenge Mao’s leadership or even form a breakaway faction. Observers say the allegations underscore the deep-seated divisions within DP and could potentially weaken the party at a time when it is seeking to regain its former glory.The Leader of the Opposition (LOP) in the Ugandan Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has accused Speaker Anita Annet Among of excluding him from meetings of the parliamentary committee he is a member of.The Leader of the Opposition (LOP) in the Ugandan Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has accused Speaker Anita Annet Among of excluding him from meetings of the parliamentary committee he is a member of. Ssenyonyi told reporters that Among does not involve him in some commission meetings, particularly those involving conflicts of interest, due to concerns that his presence may not align with her personal interests. He claimed that these meetings are often used to award contracts to companies affiliated with individuals participating in the gatherings. The LOP expressed concern that the commission is being run as “a small clique” and called for an investigation into its operations. He emphasized the need for parliament to function as an institution rather than a “small kiosk” and pledged not to remain silent or allow himself to be intimidated. Ssenyonyi’s request for an investigation aligns with the ongoing probe into corruption allegations against several lawmakers, including Cissy Namujju, Yusuf Mutembuli, and Paul Akamba. He believes that if the investigations are genuine, they should begin with the Parliamentary Commission.

Democratic Party Accuses President Mao

Kampala, Uganda – The Democratic Party (DP) has accused its president, Mao, of favoritism and nepotism. The party’s secretary-general, Gerald Siranda, alleged that Mao has been promoting his relatives and close associates to key positions within the party. According to Siranda, Mao has appointed his brother, Stephen Tashobya, as the party’s acting deputy president, despite his alleged lack of experience and qualifications for the role. He also claimed that Mao has been sidelining other senior party members who have been critical of his leadership. “The party is being run like a personal fiefdom,” Siranda said. “Mao has become a dictator who only listens to yes-men.” The accusations have sparked outrage among some DP members, who are calling for Mao’s resignation. They argue that his actions have weakened the party and eroded its credibility. Mao, however, has denied the allegations, calling them “baseless and politically motivated.” He defended his appointments, saying that Tashobya is a competent and experienced politician who deserves the post. The party is currently investigating the allegations against Mao. A disciplinary committee has been formed to gather evidence and make recommendations on the matter. The outcome of the investigation is likely to have a significant impact on the future of DP, which is one of Uganda’s oldest and most established political parties.