Corporal Richard Muhumuza, a Special Forces Command (SFC) soldier, lost his life while fulfilling duties as a close protection officer for Pastor Aloysius Bugingo of the House of Prayer Ministries International in Kampala. The deceased, who had been serving in the SFC for ten years, found himself assigned to guard the high-profile religious leader just ten months ago.
Colleagues describe Corporal Muhumuza, in his late 30s and hailing from Sembabule District, as a dedicated and well-trained soldier. He joined the Ugandan army a decade ago, eventually becoming part of the elite SFC responsible for safeguarding VIPs, including the President and their families.
The deployment of a close protection officer for Pastor Bugingo was prompted by intelligence reports indicating increasing threats against various high-profile individuals in the country. As a proactive measure, individuals, including the pastor, were either offered or requested protection.
Major Jimmy Omara, the SFC spokesperson, conveyed condolences for the fallen soldier, emphasizing the unit’s deep sense of loss. The sudden and tragic nature of the attack on Tuesday night left Corporal Muhumuza with no opportunity to defend himself. While armed, the assailants’ swift actions prevented any effective response.
Maj Omara highlighted that deployments are based on threat analysis, and the decision to assign security personnel starts from the Chief of Defence Forces and ultimately reaches the commander, who determines the assignments. Investigations into the attack have been initiated to unravel the circumstances surrounding Corporal Muhumuza’s death.
Pastor Bugingo had reportedly been aware of threats to his life, as mentioned in a video circulating on social media where he disclosed attempts by some to cause his demise in the preceding year. The attack occurred at Bwalakata Junction on National Housing Road in Namungoona, Rubaga Division, Kampala, resulting in injuries to the pastor and the tragic loss of Corporal Muhumuza.
Despite sustaining injuries, Pastor Bugingo managed to transport the vehicle to Mulago Hospital. Corporal Muhumuza, however, succumbed to the assault and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
As investigations continue, details about Corporal Muhumuza’s background, family, education, marital status, and previous deployments remain unclear at this time.
