Budaka LC1 chairman commits suicide after battling chronic illnesses

Budaka, (UG):- The Territorial Police in Budaka District are investigating the incident of death by suicide where the LC1 Chairperson for Nansemenya Village in Sapiri Parish, Mr Bonna Fredrick was found hanging in a compound tree on Friday morning.

The Acting Spokesperson – Bukedi North Region, SP Semewo Samuel confirmed the incident in a Friday police statement saying that preliminary investigations point to depression and other related factors since the deceased was suffering from chronic illness before taking the suicide decision.

“..the deceased has been ill suffering from diabetes and pressure, and yesterday (Thursday) the situation worsened and he was convinced to be taken to hospital which he refused. At around 0400/c the deceased opened the door and informed the wife that he was going to the latrine, only to be found in the morning hanging on a tree in his compound yard,” SP Semewo said.

Bonna’s wife identified as Ms Namajja Monica told DailyExpress that her husband was battling diabetes and high blood pressure and the condition worsened but he refused to be taken to a health center and she learnt about her husband’s death in the morning at around 6 pm.

Police were informed about the matter by the vice chairperson of the village Mr Bita Muhammad, and a team of officers were dispatched and they examined the scene and the deceased body taken for postmortem to Budaka Health Centre IV.

SP Semewo condemned the act of suicide and urged people to also decide wisely whenever they face challenges by seeking counsel and treatment in case of an illness. He says it is advisable to share challenges with close friends to get appropriate solutions other than taking lives.

“It is devastating to commit suicide because of depression, frustration and anger. We urge all members of the public to always inform or seek counselling from counsellors or other support groups,” SP Semewo said.