Man who set himself on fire outside parliament dies at Kiruddu Hospital

Kampala, (UG):- Benjamin Agaba, a fervent supporter of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has died following self-immolation outside Uganda’s Parliament. Agaba succumbed to his injuries at Kiruddu Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for severe burns sustained during the incident.

Agaba shocked bystanders last month on February 26, 2025, when he doused himself with a flammable liquid and set himself ablaze near the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on Parliamentary Avenue.

Eyewitnesses reported that he was protesting perceived neglect by the NRM, the ruling political party. Security personnel and civilians quickly intervened, extinguishing the flames and rushing Agaba to Kiruddu Hospital. Despite medical efforts, the extent of his injuries led to his death.

Agaba’s act appeared to stem from frustrations over unmet expectations from the NRM. A friend, who requested anonymity, disclosed that Agaba had expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s unfulfilled promises and had threatened drastic measures.

The NRM Secretariat last week acknowledged Agaba’s grievances, with Mr Emmanuel Dombo, the party’s Director of Communication, noting that the aggrieved supporter might not have received the financial assistance he sought due to not meeting the right people at the secretariat.

Dombo, however, had assured that the party would follow up on Agaba’s case to understand his concerns.

This incident has sparked discussions about the challenges faced by party supporters and the importance of addressing their concerns to prevent such tragedies in the future.