Democratic Party leaders, led by Benedicto Galiko Kiwanuka, have voiced frustration over delays in resolving the court case involving their Party President, Hon. Nobert Mao, who also serves as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
The case stems from a ruling earlier this year by High Court Judge Philip Odoki, who declared Mao’s leadership, along with other party officials, as illegal, citing violations of the Democratic Party’s constitution. Following the judgment, a faction within the party called for Mao to step down and allow an interim council to oversee new leadership elections. Mao, however, rejected the calls, arguing that the court order was not legally binding.
In response, Galiko and other party officials, including Dr. Gerald Siranda, Mayambala Kiwanuka, and Hebert Rutagwera, filed a contempt of court case against Mao. The case, initially slated for resolution in November 2024, has faced repeated delays.
Addressing journalists after the latest adjournment, Galiko expressed disappointment, emphasizing the urgency of the matter given the Electoral Commission’s recently released roadmap for parties to prepare for upcoming elections.
“We had hoped for a judgment today after months of waiting, but this has been postponed once again. We’ve learned that the trial judge, Dr. Douglas Singiza, is currently in Dar es Salaam on official duties. He will return on Sunday but has commitments in Nebbi for a criminal session before revisiting our case in February 2025,” Galiko said.
The delays, according to Galiko, hinder the party’s ability to organize and comply with the national electoral timelines, further deepening internal divisions.
This ongoing legal battle underscores the tensions within the Democratic Party as it grapples with leadership disputes and preparations for the next electoral cycle. All eyes will now turn to February 2025, when the case is expected to be heard.
