Democratic Party (DP) members loyal to Bukoto Central MP Richard Ssebamala have dragged DP President General Norbert Mao to court, challenging the legality of his re-election during the party’s recent Delegates’ Conference held in Mbarara.

In their petition filed before the High Court, the group led by MP Ssebamala accuses Mao of overseeing what they describe as a sham election riddled with gross irregularities and procedural violations. They allege that the Delegates’ Conference held last month was marred by voter fraud, exclusion of eligible delegates, and manipulation of the voters’ register to favor Mao’s continued leadership.

Ssebamala, who had expressed interest in contesting for the top seat, was reportedly blocked from participating in the elections under unclear circumstances. His supporters claim this was a calculated move to eliminate competition and entrench Mao’s control over the party.

“We are seeking justice and the restoration of democratic values within the Democratic Party. What happened in Mbarara was a mockery of internal democracy,” said Ssebamala after filing the suit.

The aggrieved members are now asking the court to nullify the results of the Delegates’ Conference and order a fresh, transparent election supervised by an independent body.

Norbert Mao, who has been at the helm of the DP since 2010, has yet to comment publicly on the legal challenge. However, sources close to the party leadership dismissed the case as a political distraction orchestrated by disgruntled elements within the party.

This legal battle further deepens divisions within Uganda’s oldest political party, which has in recent years been struggling with internal wrangles and declining influence on the national political stage.

The court is expected to set a hearing date in the coming weeks.