Today in History - DP and NRM Sign Cooperation Agreement

On this day in 2022, Uganda's political landscape shifted dramatically with the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party (DP) and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). The 42-clause pact, formalized at State House, Entebbe, was signed by President Museveni, NRM National Chairman, and Norbert Mao, DP President General, with top party officials witnessing the event.

The agreement established a framework intended to foster national dialogue, constitutionalism, and cooperative politics. Crucially, it stipulated that the DP would support the NRM government on significant legislation, confidence motions, and major policy initiatives throughout the 2021-2026 parliamentary term. This alliance quickly reshaped political dynamics within the country.

Following the agreement, Norbert Mao was appointed Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, tasked with leading national dialogue and constitutional reform efforts. Other DP members also benefited, with Secretary General Gerald Siranda securing a seat in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and DP members gaining opportunities for leadership positions in parliamentary committees and public institutions.

However, the partnership proved divisive within the Democratic Party. Several senior members opposed the deal, asserting it lacked the party's full mandate. The agreement faced multiple legal challenges, but in March 2026, the Constitutional Court affirmed its legality, ruling that it did not violate Uganda's Constitution. Despite the original term ending in 2026, discussions about the future of the cooperation continue, with critics arguing its purpose has been served, while proponents like Mao advocate for its continuation as a means to influence governance from within.