The Bardege-Layibi Division Member of Parliament, Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, has spoken out about allegations linking him to the disruption of the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s campaign in Gulu City over the weekend. 

Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, campaigned in Gulu on Saturday, December 6, 2025, but his visits were marred by violence. 

Joint security forces, comprising Uganda People’s Defence Forces and the Police, engaged his supporters in running battles, beating several as Bobi Wine attempted to address crowds in the city. 

Amid the heavy security deployment, groups of youth reportedly took to the streets assaulting anyone dressed in red—headbands, headgear, or clothing—while security personnel looked on. 

The youth, estimated to be between 50 and 90, moved in a single line through the central business district carrying sticks. 

The office of the Resident City Commissioner says it has not yet received formal complaints regarding property looting but confirms one death resulting from the scuffle. 

The incident has drawn widespread criticism from the public, with religious and traditional leaders calling for free and peaceful elections in 2026.

Addressing journalists at Taks Arts Centre in Gulu City yesterday afternoon, Mapenduzi—who is seeking re-election for Bardege-Layibi Division—described the incident as “regrettable and unfortunate.” 

He notes that although some members of the community were blaming him for planning the chaos that compromised public safety, he was engaged elsewhere with boda-boda operators on business and development matters at the time.