Assassination bid on former Ugandan minister kills daughter, driver

By Godfrey Olukya

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) - Gunmen riding motorcycles on Tuesday opened indiscriminate fire on the car of former Ugandan Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala on the outskirts of the capital Kampala, killing his daughter and driver, and injuring the former army general.

Flavia Byekwaso, an army spokeswoman, said in a statement that Wamala, who was the minister until last month, was attacked by armed men in Bukoto as he left his home for duty along with his daughter Benda Nanyonjo and driver Haruna Kayondo.

“I have been informed that Katumba Wamala has been shot at by armed thugs. Those who shot at him were on two motorcycles. His driver and daughter have been killed in the shooting,” Byekwaso said.

She said he was rushed to hospital, adding the army and other security agencies will do their best to get those involved arrested and brought to book.

Witnesses told Anadolu Agency the gunmen on two motorcycles shot many times at Wamala’s vehicle. They said Wamala was taken to hospital on a motorcycle.

Moments before the shooting, Wamala wrote on Twitter: “I wish you a month of Happiness, Success, Peace, Prosperity, Good Health, and Wealth. Remember to social distance, sanitize, and wash your hands regularly.”