Nobert Mao Nominated for Laroo-Pece Division Parliamentary Seat

Democratic Party (DP) President General and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has officially been nominated as the DP flag bearer for the Laroo-Pece Division Constituency in Gulu City, firmly putting to rest weeks of speculation about his much-anticipated political comeback.

Mao was nominated at 9:20 a.m. on Wednesday at the Electoral Commission (EC) offices in Gulu City, becoming the second candidate to be cleared, shortly after the incumbent legislator, Fr. Charles Onen, who is seeking a second term. The nomination exercise was presided over by Gulu City Returning Officer, Mike Juuko.

For weeks, the Acholi sub-region has been abuzz with speculation following the circulation of Mao’s campaign posters, even as the DP leadership remained silent. This silence came amid interest from Simon Opoka, the party’s Vice National Chairperson, who had also expressed intent to contest for the same seat.

Speaking to journalists moments after his nomination, Mao confirmed that the decision to field him was made by the party’s top organ only on Monday. He expressed gratitude to the DP for entrusting him with the party flag, noting that his return to elective politics serves both the interests of the party and the country.

“I am not new to the politics of this sub-region. The Democratic Party has made a strategic decision, and I am ready to serve once again,” he said.

In a statement that raised eyebrows, Mao also reached out to NRM supporters within the constituency, urging them to rally behind him in the spirit of loyalty to President Yoweri Museveni, who appointed him as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. “Many people here support President Museveni. I am a person appointed by the President, and if their support is genuine, then they should also support me,” Mao remarked.