Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Vice Chairperson, Robert Centenary has demanded an explanation from Democratic Party (DP) President, Norbert Mao over the delayed handover of the Inter-Party Organization for Dialogue (IPOD) chairmanship, accusing him of overstaying his tenure under an agreed rotational arrangement.
Centenary said Mao, who assumed the DP presidency 14 months ago, was expected to serve as IPOD Chairperson for six months before handing over the position to FDC.
However, he said the FDC had not received any communication indicating when the next IPOD summit would be convened or whether the rotational leadership arrangement had been changed.
He questioned why Mao, who also serves as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, had not explained whether his chairmanship had been extended, the rotational arrangement abandoned or the organization’s activities suspended.
Centenary argued that Mao should be at the forefront of respecting the rules governing institutions, particularly given his position as the country’s Justice Minister.
The FDC Vice Chairperson also raised concerns about a possible conflict of interest arising from Mao’s dual roles as an opposition party leader and a Cabinet Minister.
He questioned whether Mao was adequately representing opposition interests within government, particularly given that IPOD receives government funding through the Consolidated Fund.
He further questioned whether Mao had been compromised or was reluctant to relinquish the IPOD leadership despite the rotational arrangement.
Centenary said FDC was ready to assume the chairmanship, insisting that the party was next in line under the arrangement.
The dispute raises fresh questions about the functioning of IPOD, a platform established to facilitate dialogue among Uganda’s political parties, including those represented in Parliament.
The organization provides a framework for political parties to discuss national issues, democratic governance and electoral reforms.
Its leadership is rotated among participating political parties, with summits providing an opportunity for party leaders to engage on matters affecting the country’s political environment.
ENDS