MP Nandala declares war on gambling, reckless drinking in Bugisu

Sironko, (UG):- Budadiri West Member of Parliament, Hon Nathan Nandala Mafabi has declared war on idle youths engaging in gambling and early drinking in rural communities. 

Nandala made the statement during a media address at Mountain Inn Hotel in Mbale City on Friday afternoon, as part of his New Year’s message.  

According to Nandala, a recent operation conducted last year, in collaboration with the district security team, successfully tackled cattle theft. He explained that suspected thieves were apprehended, denied bail, and detained at Mutufu Prison. 

Having dealt with cattle theft, Nandala pointed out early drinking and gambling as the current major challenges in the community, which he said are fueling petty theft in villages. He warned that individuals caught engaging in these activities would face arrest and imprisonment. 

Nandala who is also the chairman of Bugisu Cooperative Union cautioned voters against pressuring or intimidating their leaders. He noted that many leaders are financially constrained, which he believes was why some were unable to celebrate Christmas freely with their constituents.

Unlike others, Nandala said he enjoyed the holiday season as he received numerous gifts from his supporters. He urged voters to prioritize demanding services from their leaders over seeking personal favours. 

Rev. Jackson Magombe, the Director of Operations and Communications in the Office of the MP for Budadiri West, announced that their office would resume activities this year with initiatives including hernia surgeries, organizing scholarship beneficiaries, and mobilizing farmers for the new planting season. 

 Rev. Magombe also encouraged communities to prepare for upcoming political activities in 2025, emphasizing its significance as an election year. He called on residents to report gambling centres to security teams to aid in the planned operations against these activities.