Muruli Quizzed

By Jude EtyangTHE state minister for security and Nakasongola MP, Muruli Mukasa, admitted yesterday to have addressed a gathering of voters on the eve of last year’s parliamentary elections after the open campaigns had been officially closed.During cross-examination of his sworn affidavit in defence against an election petition by Peter Nyombi, runner up for the Nakasongola seat, Muruli said he addressed “the gathering of voters” on June 25 at Nakasongola Army Secondary School regarding the role of an MP to his people.The petition against Muruli seeks to nullify his election and among the grounds raised was that he addressed a campaign rally on the eve of the election day (June 26) which is illegal according to the law governing parliamentary elections.Muruli who was the incumbent MP, said he was invited to address a gathering of students by the headmaster of the school and the former commanding officer of Nakasongola barracks, Nelson Katagara. “Prior to the presidential elections (March 12), I was informed by the headmaster that students were complaining to the area MP regarding the problems at school like lack of water and sufficient lighting.“The subject touched on the role of an MP generally for his area,” Muruli, who was dressed in a blue suit, said.The High Court proceedings were presided over by Justice Gideon Tinyinondi.The petitioner’s lawyer, Mac Dusman Kabega, further asked Muruli, “Did you emphasise to these people what the Nakasongola MP would do for them?” to which Muruli answered with a strong ‘no’.During re-examination by Peter Nkurunziza, Muruli explained that according to his understanding, the law does not prohibit a candidate from talking to a group of persons on the day before the election day.He refuted accusations that he intimidated voters.Muruli told the court that he instructed his agents to look for votes using lawful means.Ends