NATIONAL
The Minister of Information, Communication Technology and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, has cautioned Ugandans against celebrating the death of government officials, describing the practice as uncouth and unacceptable.
Speaking to journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala on Wednesday, Baryomunsi said it was wrong for some members of the public, particularly those aligned to the Opposition, to mock or celebrate the death of pro-government figures.
“It is uncouth to celebrate the death of others because all of us will die at one time or another,” he said.
Baryomunsi noted that death is inevitable and urged Ugandans to show respect to bereaved families regardless of political differences.
His remarks come as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) mourns the death of two senior military officers, Major General Deus Sande and Major General Francis Takirwa.
According to the UPDF, Maj Gen Sande, the Armoured Division Commander based in Masaka, died early Wednesday morning in Mpigi District at about 3:45am. He was reportedly travelling to Kampala to attend the funeral of Maj Gen Takirwa, the Deputy Land Forces Commander, when he developed breathing complications.
Efforts to resuscitate him at a nearby hospital were unsuccessful.
Maj Gen Sande came to limelights following his utterances in the recently concluded presidential elections campaign when he threatened to finish NUP dominance in Masaka.
“He once declared that NUP would have no place in Greater Masaka. It’s sad that he has died while NUP remains active in Masaka🤓 🕊️,” a social media user said
Nonetheless, Baryomunsi called on Ugandans to promote unity and empathy during moments of national mourning, urging the public to avoid statements or actions that could deepen divisions in society.
