MP Nandala declares war on gambling and early drinking

Sironko: Nathan Nandala Mafabi, the Member of Parliament for Budadiri West in Sironko District, has announced a new initiative to combat the growing issues of gambling and early drinking among youth in rural communities.

Nandala made this declaration during a media address at Mountain Inn Hotel in Mbale City on Friday, as part of his New Year’s message. He expressed his concerns over the negative impact these activities are having on local youth, contributing to rising cases of petty theft in the area.

Nandala, who is also the chairman of the Bugisu Cooperative Union, highlighted his previous success in tackling cattle theft in the district.

He recounted a joint operation conducted last year with the district security team, which led to the arrest and detention of suspected cattle thieves at Mutufu Prison.

With that issue now under control, Nandala turned his focus to what he sees as the new challenges facing the community: early drinking and gambling.

“These activities are not only damaging to the youth but also fueling petty crimes in our villages,” Nandala stated. He warned that anyone caught engaging in gambling or underage drinking would face arrest and imprisonment.

In his address, Nandala also cautioned voters against pressuring their leaders for personal favors, urging them to prioritize demanding essential services over individual gifts.

He acknowledged the financial challenges faced by many leaders, which, according to him, limited their ability to celebrate Christmas freely with their constituents. Unlike some, Nandala shared that he had a fulfilling holiday season, thanks to gifts from his supporters.

Rev. Jackson Magombe, the Director of Operations and Communications in Nandala’s office, outlined some of the initiatives the office would focus on this year. These include organizing hernia surgeries, supporting scholarship beneficiaries, and mobilizing farmers for the new planting season.

Magombe also encouraged the community to prepare for the upcoming political activities in 2025, highlighting the significance of the election year. He urged residents to report gambling centers to local security teams, a key part of the operations against gambling and early drinking.

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