By Norbert Mao
Norbert Mao, the Democratic Party (DP) President General, has finally broken his silence on his surprise pursuit to return to parliament claiming President Yoweri Museveni Kaguta, the chairperson of the ruling National Resistance Movement Party (NRM), is the architect of his unexpected return to local political journey.
Mao, who is also the Justice and constitutional Affairs Minister, made a quiet political return to local politics after years of focusing on national politics.
Addressing supporters on Tuesday at Obiya Highland playgrounds in Laroo-Pece division, Gulu city, Mao claims President Museveni directed Richard Todwong, the NRM Secretary General, to create a constituency for him and Laroo-Pece division parliamentary constituency was identified as a suitable election area for him to contest in the 2026 general elections.
His latest statement is in contrast with his earlier statement, shortly after his nomination that his party had informed him only two days before the exercise that he had been approved as the DP flag bearer for Laroo-Pece constituency.
Mao’s candidature has created sharp divisions within NRM structures in Gulu City, with many members openly supporting him over their official flag bearer.
Tony Kitara, the NRM candidate for the Laroo-Pece Division, said it would be a major disappointment if the NRM chose to support Mao instead of him. Mao faces stiff competition from incumbent independent legislator Fr. Charles Onen, who is seeking a second term. Other candidates include UPC’s Simon Opoka, FDC’s Geoffrey Komakech, and independents Caesar Lubangakene, Wilfred Opobo, and Edward Odong.
