Arua Municipality MP Namara Dennis has dismissed as fabricated a viral screenshot alleging he is linked to a criminal case, saying the claims are part of a coordinated smear campaign aimed at derailing his proposed legislative reforms on the selection of the Leader of the Opposition.
In a detailed statement shared on X, Namara said the alleged criminal file circulating online “has never existed,” insisting he has no record of any case in Uganda’s police system.
He further noted that he has not been to Kabale District since 2017, distancing himself from the claims being amplified on social media.
“My attention has been drawn to a fabricated screenshot of a purported criminal case against me… I wish to state unequivocally that this alleged case has never existed,” he said, adding that those behind the posts were attempting to shift attention away from his amendment proposal.
The legislator linked the online attacks to his recent declaration to sponsor an amendment to the Parliament of Uganda Administration Act, which seeks to revise how the Leader of the Opposition is selected.
He argued that instead of engaging with the substance of the Bill, critics had resorted to “intimidation, blackmail, and propaganda.”
Namara also raised concern over what he termed a growing culture of political misinformation on social media, accusing some bloggers and activists of using fabricated allegations to discredit public officials.
He warned that such tactics undermine democratic debate and accountability.
Despite the criticism, the MP expressed appreciation to President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, saying they have upheld an environment that allows freedom of expression.
However, he cautioned that free speech should not be abused to spread falsehoods or defame individuals.
“As Scripture reminds us, ‘Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,’” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to transparency and ethical leadership.
He added that while political disagreement is normal, it must be grounded in facts rather than personal attacks.
Namara, who is also a lawyer, maintained that he supports freedom of expression but will not tolerate what he described as deliberate misinformation targeting his reputation.
He concluded by urging political actors and online commentators to elevate public discourse, saying: “Let us debate ideas and not manufacture lies,” as debate over his proposed amendment continues to attract attention within Uganda’s political circles.