Ugandan Minister Shot Dead By His Bodyguard

Uganda’s Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Col Charles Okello Engola (retd) was reportedly killed by his bodyguard, a Ugandan national army soldier.

Engola, who was the Deputy Minister for Gender and Labour, was shot dead on Tuesday, May 2 at his home in a Kampala suburb.

It is not yet clear whether there was an argument between the soldier and Col Engola.

Some eyewitness said the soldier walked around the neighbourhood shooting in the air.

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Initial reports suggest a number of people may be injured and videos on social media showed locals gathering at the scene in shock.

Police spokesperson, Fred Enaga, disclosed that the minister was shot at his residence in Kyanja, at close range, while entering his vehicle to go to work.

Enaga identified the bodyguard as Private Wilson Sabiti.

Col Engola was a senior government official, and had previously served as a deputy minister for defence.

The speaker of Uganda’s parliament confirmed Col Engola’s death in a short statement while presiding over the morning session.

“This morning I received sad news that Hon Engola has been shot by his bodyguard and after, shot himself. May his soul rest in peace. That was God’s plan. We can’t change anything,” Anita Among told MPs on Tuesday.