NUP official killed in Jinja District machete attack

Summary:

• Joseph Kitawu, a National Unity Platform (NUP) official in Jinja District, was killed in a machete attack, with two others injured. The community is in shock as authorities hunt for the perpetrators.

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JINJA, (Examiner) – Joseph Kitawu, the vice coordinator of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in Kagoma North constituency, Jinja District, has tragically succumbed to three brutal machete attacks, leaving two others hospitalized. Kitawu, a prominent businessman known for his cattle dealings, was ambushed near his residence in Magamaga village, Buwenge Rural sub-county. According to Gerald Ssentembo, the LC1 Secretary for Defence in the area, Kitawu was strangled and hacked before his lifeless body was dumped in Magamaga swamp.

The shocking incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with Ssentembo expressing grave concerns over the safety of residents following the ruthless murder. Nicolas Nkola, the NUP chairperson for Buwenge Town Council, described Kitawu as a friendly figure who recently initiated a football team, extending his camaraderie even to supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

In another distressing occurrence, Brian Mwandale, the Speaker of Buwenge Rural sub-county council, fell victim to a similar attack while walking home in Kyerinda village. Found severely injured near his residence, Mwandale was swiftly transported to a local clinic in Buwenge Town Council and later transferred to Jinja Regional Referral hospital in critical condition.

Monica Namukose Kamagu, the Speaker of Jinja District, addressing concerned residents, urged the authorities to promptly investigate the attacks and provide reassurance to the community. Richard Gulume, the Resident District Commissioner of Jinja, confirmed a third victim, a butcher, sustaining grievous injuries from yet another machete attack at Mutai Trading Centre, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.

Despite the prevailing unease, Gulume called for calm, assuring residents of intensified efforts to bring the assailants to justice. As investigations continue, the identities of the attackers remain undisclosed, heightening tensions within the region.