Uganda is known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture. From the stunning shores of Lake Victoria to the lively streets of Kampala, the country is truly captivating. However, beneath this beauty, there are serious issues of political injustice and unrest. Many Ugandans live in fear, and the recent disappearance of Mahad Sentongo, a dedicated councilor from Kyanja, highlights this dark side. His family is desperately searching for answers, hoping he will return safely.
The Sentongo family in Kyanja is filled with fear and sorrow. Mahad, a well-loved community figure, has disappeared without a trace. Born on November 10, 1992, at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Mahad had a promising life. He married Kyazike Jaliah on November 20, 2016, and they have three children: Hamis, Aisha, and Abdul. Mahad graduated from Makerere University in 2017 with a degree in Social Sciences and was known as both a businessman and a passionate advocate for political change in Uganda.
On October 14, 2020, while attending a meeting at the NUP headquarters in Kamwokya, Mahad and his colleagues were attacked by military officers. The raid was brutal; computers were taken, and attendees were detained for hours. Mahad narrowly escaped, but this marked the start of his troubles.
As a polling agent for the NUP during the 2021 general elections, Mahad witnessed military personnel tampering with ballot boxes. His attempts to report these irregularities were met with threats. His phone was flooded with ominous messages, warning him to back down.
On October 30, 2021, while on his way to work, Mahad was abducted by men in a van, beaten, and detained in a secret location. Accused of being a rebel, he was severely tortured. When released, he was left in critical condition at Mulago Hospital and went into hiding.
The most recent incident happened on March 19, 2023. Mahad was intercepted by armed men and taken to a police station. After days of intensive interrogation, he was released but realized his life was in grave danger and decided to disappear completely.
Today, Mahad’s whereabouts remain unknown. His wife Jaliah and their children are living with relatives, while his mother-in-law helps care for them. The fear of retaliation looms over the family. Mahad’s brother and other relatives continue searching for answers.
Mahad Sentongo’s disappearance reminds us of the risks faced by those fighting for justice in Uganda. His family’s relentless search shows their love and desperation. If anyone has information about Mahad’s whereabouts, please come forward. Your help could reunite a father with his children, a husband with his wife, and a son with his family.
