Mao tells youth to join political activism as DP clocks 62 years

ENTEBBE- The leader of the opposition Democratic Party (DP) Norbert Mao  has called on the youth to unite and join political activism saying his party would support them to change the path of Uganda’s democracy.

“I want to thank members of DP for the united stand. l assure all youth who will  indulge in lawful political activities. Even if it is a demonstration, don’t be afraid, the party will take care of you,” he said.

Mr Mao was speaking during the party’s 62^nd anniversary   celebrations at Nkumba Primary School, in Katabi, Entebbe that were graced by politicians from different opposition parties.

He said the party would provide lawyers to bail out arrested party members and also make sure that families of those in the struggle do not suffer financial and social consequences.

Mr Mao accused President Museveni of gross misconduct and misuse of the country’s resources on luxury.

“People are suffering with diseases like cancer. The government can afford to spend money on a luxury plane for Mr Museveni but can’t afford to buy a cancer machine for people in the country,” he said.

Ms Betty Nambooze, the MP for Mukono Municipality called on DP supporters to be at the frontline of restoring democracy in the country.

 “The people who first got to know that Museveni is a liar, were DP supporter but it hurts to see that were not leading the struggle for democracy in the country. Those who are following Dr Besigye aren’t FDC party members. They are Ugandans who want change, so let us go to the frontline,” she said.

Uganda People’s Congress Secretary General Mr Edward Segane told the gathering that opposition parties have to unite if they are to end President Museveni’s long stay in power.

“We as opposition political parties are conflicting and fighting each other but it would be better for us to work together,” he said. “But if we stay disunited while fighting an opponent (Museveni) who has multiple resources including the army at his disposal, we are fighting a losing war”.

The leader of the Social Democratic Party Mr Mike Mabikke asked Mr Mao to unite all members of DP in order to lead the country’s next phase of democratic revolution thorough underground mobilisation.

“Museveni isn’t powerful, he is weakening everyday. Defiance cannot unseat him. A dictator can’t be defeated through defiance because that’s what he wants. The only way you can defeat a dictator is by underground mobilisation,” Mr Mabikke said.

Mr Paul Mwiru, who represented Gen Mugisha Muntu, the president of the Forum for Democratic Change said wrangles in the DP are hurting the entire opposition in the country.

Established in 1954, DP is one of the oldest active political parties not only in Uganda but in Africa.