A group of social media users in Uganda have initiated a fundraising campaign to provide financial support for the family of a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier who shot and killed the State Minister for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Col (rtd) Charles Okello Engola.
The online campaign has sparked controversy among some commentators, as Pte Wilson Sabiiti, the soldier who committed the crime, also took his own life. However, the campaign was prompted by the financial struggles of Pte Sabiiti’s family, as revealed by his close family members, who have been shouldering heavy financial burdens.
The fundraisers have been sending money to Pte Sabiiti’s younger sister, Oliver Musiimenta, through her mobile phone to enable them to organize the burial ceremony of the soldier and continue taking care of his children.
Ms. Musiimenta said that their main challenge was feeding mourners who have been visiting their home since the incident occurred. Pte Sabiiti had been the sole breadwinner of his family since 2016 when his father passed away, and he had been looking after his mother, three siblings, and six children, four of whom were his.
The Defence spokesperson, Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye, clarified that UPDF is not responsible for burying soldiers who commit suicide or engage in criminal activities like Sabiiti, and the family has to take care of the arrangements.
Nevertheless, the UPDF will transport the body to the funeral venue out of compassion, and as soon as it is delivered, they will disperse. Despite the criticism, Ms. Musiimenta appreciated the well-wishers who have been sending support to her family, stating that they still needed more support.
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