Mourners Bid Farewell to Muhwezi Justus Amidst Calls for Justice and Alcohol Regulation

Kasozi M

On December 20, 2023, a multitude of individuals from diverse backgrounds gathered in Rwenkurijo village, Nyakaina parish, Buyanja Sub County, Rukungiri district. They assembled to bid farewell to Muhwezi Justus, who tragically lost his life in a devastating accident on the Rukungiri-Ntungamo road on Monday, December 18, 2023, near Nyakibale.

Muhwezi, aged 55, was commuting from Rukungiri town to his workplace at Kings Hotel in Rwobusisi, Kyamakanda parish, Buyanja Subcounty. He was on a Boda Boda with registration number UFM 373V when, according to police reports, he was intentionally struck by Kyebikaru Willium driving a Toyota Harrier with registration number UBH 562C.

Addressing the mourners, Mr. Bebwa Banard, a catechist at St. Peter’s Buyanja Catholic Parish, Katojo, emphasized the transient nature of life and urged everyone to be prepared for the inevitability of death.

Patrice Mubangizi, the proprietor of Kings Hotel, expressed his grief, describing Muhwezi not only as an employee but also as a friend. He questioned the malicious intent behind the intentional crash and the audacity to reverse and end Muhwezi’s life.

Mr. Geofrey Kyomukama, the LC 5 chairman of Rukungiri district, cautioned the public to exercise caution and safeguard their lives, particularly during the festive season. He voiced concern about excessive alcohol consumption in the district and stressed the importance of self-control.

During the ceremony, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, the Rukungiri district legislator and a mourner, denounced acts of violence and called on the police to conduct thorough investigations and apprehend the perpetrator. He also criticized the high levels of alcohol consumption in Uganda and revealed that members of parliament were working on the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill, 2023, to regulate alcohol consumption.

In her tribute to her late husband, Mrs. Hellen Nimusiima Muhwezi portrayed him as a courageous and hardworking man who cared deeply for and loved his family. Muhwezi is survived by a widow and seven orphans.