President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with the families of the late Col. (Rtd) Charles Okello Engola Macodwogo and the late Zebra Ssenyange, both of whom were mistakenly killed by officers of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). The meeting took place on Friday at State House Entebbe.
Col. Engola, who served as the Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, was tragically gunned down by his bodyguard, UPDF soldier Wilson Sabiti, on the morning of May 2, 2023, at his home in Kyanja, a Kampala suburb.
Zebra Ssenyange, a former professional boxer, trainer, and NRM mobilizer, was killed by army officers on patrol in the early hours of December 30, 2020, at his home in Bwaise, Kawempe Division.
As the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, President Museveni invited the families of the victims to officially extend an apology on behalf of the army. During the meeting, the President reiterated his condolences to both families and provided them with financial support.
The National Leadership of Born-Agains (Balokole) from Lira District offered prayers during the gathering, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness, as taught by Jesus on the cross.
The family of the late Col. Engola was led by his brother, Mr. Sam Engola, who expressed gratitude to President Museveni for organizing the important meeting. He was accompanied by the widow, Ms. Joyce Ayikoru, relatives, and cultural elders from the Otikokin clan. The family of the late Zebra Ssenyange was led by his son, Isaac Ssenyange, along with his siblings and widow, Ms. Mercy Mukankusi.
Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defense Forces (D/CDF), represented the Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at the meeting. On behalf of the UPDF, Lt. Gen. Okiding offered a sincere apology and extended condolences to the families of the victims. The families accepted the apology.
