By Christine
The Democratic Party leaders in Fort Portal have questioned the progress of Uganda’s oldest political party, after some of them stayed away from its 72 years celebration.
Over the weekend, Democratic Party supporters and leaders dressed in the party’s green and white colours gathered in Buikwe District to celebrate 72 years of existence of the oldest political party in Uganda.
However, some leaders in Fort Portal and Kabarole did not attend. They say while the party has a long history to be proud of, there is need to honestly ask what has been achieved in those 72 years.
Speaking to our reporter, the Democratic Party Chairperson for Fort Portal and Kabarole, Haruna Kibirang, said DP has remained the oldest party, but he is concerned that weak leadership under its President, Norbert Mao, has slowed down the party’s growth.
Kibirango said democratic parties in other countries are growing because of unity and togetherness, and he feels DP in Uganda is still struggling in that area.
The leaders pointed to poor management and the cooperation agreement with the ruling party, NRM, as some of the issues they believe have affected the party. They say these issues need to be addressed if the party is to regain its strength.
Founded in 1954, the Democratic Party celebrated 72 years of existence and it remains one of the oldest political parties in Uganda.