Orungo, Uganda — Gen. Jeje Odongo Abubakar has spoken publicly about a fatal shooting that occurred during New Year celebrations at Apasi Trading Centre in Orungo Constituency, describing the incident as a tragic consequence of heightened tensions between rival political supporters as the country heads into a heated election season.
The deceased has been identified as Mr. Eteru Saidi, a resident of Ilelu Village in Apasi and a supporter of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for Orungo, Madam Teddy Anyuk Osiire. The incident has triggered fear and anxiety among residents, with community leaders and political actors calling for restraint and calm.
In a statement to the media, Gen. Odongo explained that the day’s events began peacefully following a request from residents of Apasi. According to him, members of the community had asked for a radio and sound system to facilitate New Year celebrations at the trading centre. He said he honored the request in the spirit of unity and to allow residents to usher in the New Year together.
However, Gen. Odongo noted that as celebrations progressed, tensions emerged between supporters aligned to different political camps. He said the situation deteriorated rapidly, resulting in confrontations that security personnel struggled to contain. It was during this escalation, he added, that the fatal shooting occurred.
“This was an unfortunate and regrettable incident,” Gen. Odongo said, emphasizing that there had been no intention for violence and that the loss of life was deeply saddening. He conveyed condolences to the family of the deceased and the wider Apasi community, describing the death as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by political intolerance.
Residents who spoke after the incident expressed concern over their safety, particularly as campaign activities intensify ahead of the elections. Some community members said the shooting has disrupted daily life in the area, with gatherings becoming subdued and fear lingering among traders and residents.
Local leaders have urged political supporters to avoid provocation and to resolve differences through lawful and peaceful means. They warned that continued hostility could undermine community cohesion and derail development efforts in Orungo Constituency.
Security authorities have since increased their presence in Apasi and surrounding areas, assuring the public that investigations into the incident are ongoing. Officials have reiterated calls for cooperation from witnesses and emphasized that the law will take its course.
Gen. Odongo also appealed to political actors to exercise responsibility during the campaign period, noting that leaders bear a duty to promote peace among their supporters. “Politics should never be a reason for neighbors to turn against each other,” he said.
As the community mourns Mr. Eteru Saidi, many residents hope the tragedy will serve as a turning point, prompting renewed commitment to peaceful political engagement and respect for life during the electoral process.
