The High Court in Kampala has dismissed a petition filed by members of the Democratic Party challenging the party’s cooperation agreement with the ruling National Resistance Movement.
In a ruling delivered this week, the court said the petitioners failed to present sufficient legal grounds to nullify the agreement. The judge noted that political parties are free to enter cooperation arrangements provided they comply with their internal constitutions and national laws regulating political organisations.
Background to the Petition
The case was brought by a group of disgruntled DP members who argued that the party leadership exceeded its authority when it signed the cooperation agreement with the NRM.
They claimed the pact was concluded without adequate consultation with key party organs and lacked approval from the broader party membership.
The members also argued that the arrangement undermined the values and independence of the Democratic Party, one of Uganda’s oldest political organisations.
The cooperation agreement, signed in 2022, has been a source of sharp divisions within the opposition, with critics accusing the DP leadership of moving too close to the ruling party.
Court’s Findings
In dismissing the petition, the court ruled that the applicants had not demonstrated any violation of the party constitution or national laws that would justify judicial intervention.
The judge observed that courts generally avoid interfering in internal party decisions unless there is clear evidence of illegality.
The ruling further stated that the party leadership acted within its administrative mandate and that disagreements over strategy or political direction should primarily be addressed through internal party mechanisms rather than through the courts.
Political Reactions
The decision is expected to reignite debate within the Democratic Party, where factions have remained divided over the cooperation pact with the NRM.
Supporters of the agreement argue that it allows the party to engage government and influence policy from within, while critics say it compromises the party’s role as an opposition force.
Leaders within the ruling National Resistance Movement have previously defended the arrangement, saying it promotes dialogue, national unity and inclusive governance.
What Next for DP?
With the case now dismissed, members opposed to the cooperation agreement may have to pursue their grievances through the party’s internal structures.
Political analysts say the ruling could strengthen the position of the current DP leadership, although it may also deepen existing divisions within the party as it prepares for future political contests.
