Senior Reporter
Hundreds of mourners gathered on Wednesday to bid farewell to Joshua Kareire Atukunda at his home in Kyempene, Rugarama sub-county, Ntungamo district. During the funeral service, South Ankole Diocese Bishop Rt Rev Nathan Ahimbisibwe urged caution in eating habits, highlighting the prevalence of poisoning as a means of murder, particularly targeting unsuspecting individuals.
Kareire, the former CEO of the Uganda Cooperative Transport Union (UCTU), passed away under suspicious circumstances, with poisoning suspected as the cause of death. Bishop Ahimbisibwe emphasized that poisoning has unfortunately become a common method of murder, a trend that politicians, religious leaders, and other prominent figures must be vigilant about.
Before his untimely demise, Kareire had been in and out of hospitals both locally and internationally, attempting to detoxify his body. He had also declared his candidacy for the Rushenyi County parliamentary seat in Ntungamo district.
Ms. Naome Kabasharira, the current Rushenyi County MP, acknowledged the precarious nature of politics, noting that besides the threat of poisoning, many politicians face serious risks due to the demands of their constituents.
Kareire, survived by his wife, Ms. Joan Atukunda, and seven children, passed away at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.
