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President Museveni Offers UGX 5 Million to Family of Electrocuted NRM Supporter in Kole District
By Okidi Patrick
KOLE, UGANDA – January 14, 2026: The people of Kole Town Council have expressed deep gratitude to His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for offering financial support to the families of victims following a tragic electrocution incident that claimed one life and left three others critically injured during the dismantling of campaign tents.
The heartbreaking event occurred on January 7, 2026, at approximately 5:00 PM, at the Aculubanya Primary School playground in Kole Town Council, Kole District. The deceased has been identified as Onuma Isaac, a 36-year-old boda boda rider and active National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporter from Teokwar Village, Western Ward A, Kole Town Council.
Isaac died instantly after a live electric wire came into contact with the metal poles of campaign tents being removed after an NRM rally. The tragedy also left three others with severe injuries:
Alima Brian, 22, from Teakwar Western Ward B
Ogwang Emmanuel, 22, from Omuku Western Ward B
Okello Daniel James, 23, from Abuku ‘A’ Village, Alemi Parish, Ayer Sub-county
On January 14, 2026, Commissioner Dr. Akello Alice Opio, representing the Office of the President and overseeing RDCs in Northern Uganda, delivered UGX 5 million to the bereaved family of Onuma Isaac. Each of the three injured victims received UGX 1 million in financial support from the presidency.
In her address to the bereaved family and community members gathered at the burial prayers, Dr. Opio emphasized the need for responsible use of the funds.
“This money is not for drinking, gambling, or chasing women who will eat your money without return,” she said sternly. “Use it wisely—invest in productive ventures like piggery, poultry farming, or education for the children left behind.”
She specifically instructed the father of the deceased, Abili Tom, to ensure the funds are used to pay school fees for the orphans of Isaac, who has now left behind a grieving family and community.
The burial service was held with deep solemnity and led by Relegious team from Saint James Okole Church of Uganda, where Rev. Can. Mackey Odyek and Rev. Betty Owiny led prayers based on scriptures from Luke 12:8–9 and Ezekiel 6:50. The religious leaders consoled the mourners, urging them to find strength in faith amid the tragedy.
Hon. Odoch Denis, the District Speaker of Kole District Local Council, revealed that he was among the group working alongside the deceased during the tent dismantling and survived only “by the mercy of God.” He described the incident as a painful reminder of the risks often overlooked during political events.
President Museveni, unable to attend in person due to prior national engagements, sent a condolence message read aloud by Commissioner Dr. Opio.
“I have learnt with sadness about the tragic accident that occurred in Kole on January 7, 2026, where some people were electrocuted while removing campaign tents. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the departed Onuma Isaac and pray for a swift and full recovery for the injured,” the President said.
The President praised the dedication of NRM supporters and commended the swift response by local leaders and his representatives in uniting for the common good of the party.
Hon. Sharon Lamunu, the Woman Representative for Kole Town Council, lauded Dr. Alice Opio for the prompt delivery of the condolence packages and hailed President Museveni for his continued support to grassroots supporters.
“This is a clear demonstration of the President’s compassion. He may not be physically present, but his heart is with the people of Kole,” she said.
Additional contributions were made in solidarity:
Maj.Gen. Keith Katungyi, the 5th Div.Commander contributed UGX 1 million
Government Chief Whip Hon. Denis Hamson Obua also contributed UGX 1 million to the bereaved family
Owani Jacob, clan head of the Adwarkori clan, expressed profound appreciation to the President and pledged unwavering loyalty from his people.
“We thank H.E. the President for standing with us in this moment of pain. We promise to support him during and after every election. Isaac’s sacrifice will not be forgotten,” he declared.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kole, Akulu Jillian Omara, confirmed that the electrocution occurred due to accidental contact between the metallic tent poles and an exposed power line during dismantling.
RDC Akullu echoed Dr. Opio’s advice, urging the bereaved family not to squander the funds but to use them for the welfare and future of Isaac’s children.
The people of Teokwar Cell and the wider Kole District have rallied around the family, offering emotional and communal support, while also praising the swift government intervention.
As mourners dispersed after the burial, Dr. Akello Alice Opio concluded with a solemn prayer:
“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace. Amen.”
For now, Kole grieves the loss of a dedicated party foot soldier—but finds solace in the unity and compassion shown by leaders and citizens alike.
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