A meeting to sensitise NRM party parliamentary contestants in Masindi District about observing the Covid-19 guidelines today (Tuesday) turned rowdy following counter-accusations.
The meeting was convened by the District COVID-19 Taskforce chaired by the deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr Longino Baheebwa, after it emerged that the candidates were flouting the Covid-19 guidelines including social distancing among others.
The meeting held at the RDC’s office compound involved contestants vying for the party flag bearing in the forthcoming 2021 elections.
All started well until Ms Jalia Bintu Lukumu accused her opponents in the race for Buruuli County parliamentary representation; Mr Steven Kabindi and Mr Martin Isaac Kaahwa of purportedly defaming her.
Ms Bintu, who is also the Masindi district woman Member of Parliament, claimed that the duo framed her before the electorate that she embezzled Sh200m that President Museveni pledged to the groups that trained under her skilling project.
The legislator also accused her opponents of allegedly mudslinging her that she distributed hoes to bribe voters so she could amass support yet they were government donated.
In his reaction, Mr Kabindi who also attended the meeting denied the allegations saying during his campaigns drumming up for support, voters accuse Ms Bintu of failing to fulfill her promises to them.
He said voters cite Ms Bintu’s skilling programme where she reportedly donated one sewing machine to 80 people.
This resulted into a heated disagreement between the two politicians prompting the chairman to call the meeting to order.
In another incident, Professor Samuel Majalija accused his opponent, the incumbent Bujenje county Member of Parliament, Lt (Rtd) Patrick Kasumba, of allegedly pepper spraying his supporters.
The professor alleged that the incident took place yesterday (Monday) at Rwensorooro village in Bwijanga sub-county at around 7pm with intent to disperse his opponents.
He said that he took the victims to Ntooma police post where they recorded statements.
However, Mr Kasumba denied the allegations and tasked Prof Majalija to adduce evidence.
During the meeting, Mr Baheebwa, the Masindi District Covid-19 Taskforce chairman, banned all public parties with many people. The candidates were told to observe the standard operating procedures (SOPs) or else be dealt with accordingly.
