By Norbert Mao
The Member of Parliament for Bardege-Layibi Division, Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, has come out strongly to defend his name and reputation following widespread allegations linking him to a group of youth (Aguu) who have been accused of instigating chaos that marred the campaign visit of National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu in Gulu City on Saturday.
The group allegedly attacked traders, vandalized property, and assaulted some supporters of Kyagulanyi while security forces allegedly looked on.
Addressing journalists at a press conference held today in Gulu Mapenduzi said he was deeply concerned by a series of videos and audio recordings circulating across various social media platforms with clips accusing him of organising and financing the group alleged to have participated in this acts of violence during the rally.
Mapenduzi dismissed the allegations as malicious, baseless, and personal political interest intended to tarnish his public image.
He emphasised that he has always championed peaceful political engagement, dialogue, and respect for the rule of law and stressed that the wave of misinformation being circulated online is not only defamatory but also dangerous, as it has the potential to mislead the public and incite unnecessary political tension.
Addressing journalists at Naguru Police Headquarters on Monday, Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke described the incident as “regrettable, undesirable, and unfortunate” and announced that a general inquiry has been launched.
