Buyende: In a shocking incident, two individuals, Denis Sande, commonly known as Salongo, and Awali Mpaulo were on Monday remanded to Buyende Government Prison for allegedly damaging an ambulance donated to Kidera Health Centre IV by the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda.
The Grade One Magistrate’s Court in Buyende District, presided over by His Worship Paul Kauka, charged the duo with malicious damage.
The alleged vandalism took place when the suspects, Sande and Mpaulo, reportedly led a group of youths to sabotage the ambulance by laying nails on the road, causing its tires to deflate. This prompted authorities in the rural district to take action, leading to multiple arrests.
Police efforts culminated on April 3, 2025, with the arrest of Salongo and Mpaulo. However, several others involved in the act reportedly escaped.
The incident has sparked controversy, with some residents alleging the arrests were politically motivated, given Minister Babalanda’s interest in contesting for the Member of Parliament seat in Budiope West.
The two men are expected to appear in court again on April 8, 2025, for a bail application. Their case has reignited debate about politics and community relations in Buyende District.
Former Budiope West legislator Robert Musoke, who was present at court, dismissed allegations that the vandalism was “orchestrated under the Minister’s command.” He criticized leaders who, he said, attempt to coerce voters, questioning their fitness for public office.
Meanwhile, Minister Babalanda has publicly expressed her interest in contesting for the Budiope West seat, currently held by MP Ibrahim Kyoto. The outspoken minister has been actively engaging with the local community, spearheading several initiatives aimed at empowering women and improving household livelihoods.
Among her efforts is the donation of the ambulance, intended to enhance local health services. However, some community members view the gesture with skepticism.
A resident of Kidera Town Council commented, “People feel the ambulance doesn’t address the health center’s main challenges. The real need is upgrading it to a full-fledged Health Centre IV, as it’s still officially registered as a Health Centre III.”
Despite resistance from some quarters particularly the youth, Minister Babalanda remains determined to unseat MP Kyoto in the upcoming elections. Her candidacy is under close public scrutiny due to her high-profile position in government.
