Late MP Matovu's Family Rejects Rival's Financial Pledge Amid Mounting Tensions

The grieving family of the late former Busiro South Member of Parliament, Charles Matovu, has firmly rejected a school fees pledge made by area legislator Kenan Opio. Matovu passed away suddenly at Mulago National Referral Hospital on October 22, leaving behind an active court battle contesting Opio’s election victory. Following Matovu’s death, the Entebbe High Court issued a notice of abatement, noting that the election petition had lapsed.

Speaking at the deceased’s home in Kungu–Lutale, Wakiso District, Gomba East County MP Godfrey Saazi expressed outrage over Opio’s remarks in Parliament. Opio had offered to financially support one of Matovu’s children with school fees for four years. Rejecting the gesture, Saazi stated that the family would handle their own burdens and did not appreciate the offer.

Tensions surrounding the mourning period also involved disruptions at the burial grounds. Saazi condemned an incident where Kibuku County MP Herbert Kinobere allegedly attempted to force his way into the funeral wearing ruling party and Patriotic League of Uganda paraphernalia, which mourners viewed as provocative.

Meanwhile, the family’s grief has been compounded by the arrest of 20 National Unity Platform members who were returning from the burial. NUP lawyer Francis Jjemba highlighted the plight of an underage student among the detainees, allegedly picked up at security roadblocks targeting individuals wearing opposition red colors. Family members and party leaders have since appealed for the immediate release of all detained individuals.

Read more details on the Daily Monitor.