ENGOLA’S DEATH: Ugandans warned against social media misuse, speculation
As speculations on what triggered Sabiiti to shot and kill Col. Engola continues, Baryomunsi in an interview with Charmar News has asked Ugandans to refrain from spreading falsehood about Tuesday's incident.
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, has implored Ugandans to desist from the habit of misusing social media platforms. He said Uganda should rather utilize it for developmental purposes.
The minister was reacting to the widespread speculations arising from the unclear circumstances that led to the murder of State Minister for Labour Col. (Rtd) Charles Engola by his bodyguard, Private Wilson Sabiiti.
As speculations on what triggered Sabiiti to shot and kill Col. Engola continues, Baryomunsi in an interview with Charmar News has asked Ugandans to refrain from spreading falsehood about Tuesday’s incident.
“Most Ugandans have resorted to using social media for speculations and this undermines the ongoing investigations. The Tuesday incident is purely an isolated incident that should not be used to describe how Ministers relate with their aides,” he said.
The minister dismissed media allegations of panic among ministers and persons with such security detail. He appealed to Ugandans to use social media responsibly.
Baryomunsi, however, recognized the incident as one with numerous lessons for leaders especially those with a number of aides around them.
“I am contented that much as familiarity might breed contempt, it does not cost anything for principals to scale down on their pride and build a cordial relationship with their aides,” explained Baryomunsi.
He henceforth dismissed allegations that the embattled bodyguard took the minister’s life over his salary arrears after all ministers or principals are never involved in the management of pay slips not even allowances.
On whether high-profile leaders should have a designated place cordoned off for their residences, minister Baryomunsi said the benefits with every pocket of the country be it a slam or not secured out-weighs those of ring-fencing off for the so-called big-shots.
According to the tentative burial arrangements, the slain minister will be laid to rest on 13th May 2023.
Col Engola, who doubled as Oyam North County Member of Parliament, was shot Tuesday morning by his bodyguard, Pte Wilson Sabiiti, at his home in Kyanja, a Kampala suburb.
Gender Minister, Betty Amongi, told this publication Wednesday that Engola’s body will be taken to Parliament next week on Tuesday at 10 am for the legislators to pay their last respect.
