A vehicle belonging to the convoy of the Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party has knocked and killed a pedal cyclist and severely injured several other people along the Fort Portal-Kamwenge highway after it got involved in a fatal accident.
The vehicle registration number UAU 057S, Klugger, silver in color was part of the Bobi Wine convoy currently touring the region.
An eye witness said the vehicle belonging to Jolly Mugisha, the NUP deputy party president for the Western region reportedly collided with a pedal cyclist around 8:00 a.m. on July 15, 2024, at Katentebere in Fort Portal City.
Police have identified the errant driver as Mwesigwa Simon, a 46-year-old resident of Mbarara City.
The deceased has been identified as Kyomuhendo Thomas, a 59-year-old pedal cyclist from Kitumba “B” Central Division, Fort Portal City.
Two other people, identified as Kevin Masereka and Fred Byakutanger Ssempija, sustained severe injuries and were rushed to Ebenezer Health Centre III for medical treatment but later discharged.
Police attributed the incident to overspeeding and cautioned drivers against reckless driving while in a convoy.
Eyewitnesses told police that the convoy was over speeding, and the driver struggled with the fateful vehicle and lost control before the fatal collision.
A credible source in NUP has confirmed that Jolly Mugisha has secretly paid Shs10 million in blood compensation to the families of the deceased in an apparent attempt to secure the release of the driver.
She has also paid key witnesses who were at the scene not to report or publicize it in the media since it could give a wrong image to her or the National Unity Party.
Asiimwe Amon, another eyewitness, has asked traffic police to ensure strict regulation against over speeding by vehicles involved in such political activities, especially in rural areas where residents may not be accustomed to high-speed traffic.
The accident has sparked a public debate about the safety measures surrounding political campaigns and convoys.
Police have commenced investigations into the accident, and the driver of the vehicle is currently detained at Fort Portal Police Station.
The NUP leadership is currently on a countrywide tour to mobilize supporters and establish new party offices ahead of the 2026 general elections.
