VANESSA A
The President of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Mugisha Muntu, has called on Ugandan leaders to focus on empowering citizens with skills to make money and live dignified lives rather than turning them into beggars.
Speaking during the burial of renowned businessman Dr. James Musinguzi Garuga at his ancestral home in Rugyeyo Subcounty, Kanungu District, Muntu urged Ugandans to elect leaders who will teach people to sustain themselves, maintain integrity, and avoid unnecessary political noise. He also encouraged citizens not to fear speaking out and urged church leaders to persist in praying for the nation.
The burial was attended by high-profile figures from political, religious, and business circles. Hon. Winnie Babihunga, delivering a message from Dr. Kizza Besigye and on behalf of the Kifefe family, expressed shock at Garuga’s passing and reaffirmed their commitment to the ongoing struggle for justice. She also called for Besigye’s release.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, the chief mourner, praised Garuga as a man who left a lasting impact on his community. He noted that Garuga worked closely with government to advance the tea industry and promised that additional financing for the sector would be available within two weeks. Tayebwa also called on citizens to support government programs such as the Parish Development Model and backed calls for a fair and swift trial for Dr. Besigye.
Bishop Dan Zoreka of Kinkiizi Diocese described the late Garuga as a man of integrity, justice, hard work, unity, and kindness who served God faithfully. He urged Christians to make God their priority. Similarly, Bishop Onesmus Asiimwe of North Kigezi Diocese hailed Garuga as a strong voice for the weak and a humble yet developmental leader. He reminded the wealthy to use their resources for the benefit of others and encouraged mourners to seize opportunities while they last.
Monsignor John Vianny Sunday, representing Bishop Callist Rubaramira of Kabale Diocese, thanked God for Garuga’s life and his significant support to church development projects. He urged Christians to remain hopeful and love one another.
The family remembered Garuga as a patriot who believed in the potential of agriculture—particularly tea and coffee farming—as a key driver of rural development. His widow, Dr. Peace Musinguzi, called on Ugandans to demand better health services and clarified that their tea factories were established through loans, not government financial support.
Dr. James Musinguzi Garuga, who died aged 72, is survived by his wife and four children. His funeral drew mourners from across the country, including political leaders, religious dignitaries, and members of the business community.
