Unseating Museveni Is Not Easy As Most Of You Think!! Minister Norbert Mao Exits Presidential Race

Minister Norbert Mao has officially withdrawn from the 2026 presidential race, marking a major shift in Uganda’s political landscape. Mao, who has been a long-time contender for the presidency, explained that challenging President Yoweri Museveni is not an easy task.

In a recent announcement, Mao stressed that he respects Museveni’s long-standing leadership and acknowledged the immense challenge of unseating him. His decision comes as a surprise to many supporters who had hoped to see a competitive contest.

The Democratic Party (DP) has confirmed that it will not field a presidential candidate in the upcoming general elections. Instead, the party has chosen to focus its efforts on parliamentary and local government contests, describing the move as a pragmatic and sustainable strategy.

During the first session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Kampala on September 19, 2025, DP leaders voted to concentrate resources where the party has a higher chance of winning. This approach is intended to make the most of limited funds while expanding the party’s influence at the grassroots level.

The motion to shift focus was tabled by DP Vice President Fred Mukasa Mbidde. Senior party figures, including Fred Oyonga, Western Region Vice President Alhajir Makumbi, and Bukedi Region representative Peter Ndinywa, all seconded the decision.

The DP resolution emphasizes five key priorities: better use of resources, stronger grassroots structures, consolidating cooperation with the ruling NRM party, promoting peaceful elections, and creating more opportunities for women and youth in politics.

Mbidde explained that this strategic repositioning is not a retreat from national politics. Instead, it is a calculated effort to maximize the party’s impact and achieve meaningful electoral gains in areas where victory is more achievable.

Party leaders highlighted the high cost of repeated presidential campaigns, noting that running for president without sufficient chances of success drains resources that could otherwise strengthen legislative and local presence.

The DP believes that investing in parliamentary seats and local government positions will provide a stronger foundation for future influence and political growth. By focusing on winnable contests, the party aims to build long-term stability and better serve its supporters.

With Mao stepping aside and the DP concentrating on strategic wins, the political landscape in Uganda is set to change. Observers now expect a more focused approach from opposition parties, with increased attention on grassroots mobilization and legislative influence rather than high-cost presidential bids.

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