Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has expressed grief over the death of Kikuube District Chairperson Peter Banura Araali, describing it as a major loss to both the district and the country.
In a condolence message, Nabbanja said Banura’s passing had deprived Kikuube of a committed and promising leader.
“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Araali Peter Banura, the Kikuube District Chairman. His death is a huge loss to Kikuube and Uganda at large,” she said.
She praised the late Banura as a dedicated public servant who played a key role in shaping the district’s leadership as its pioneer LCV chairperson.
“He was a young man deeply committed to leadership and service. As the pioneer LCV Chairperson of Kikuube, he was dedicated to the progress of the district and the wellbeing of its people,” Nabbanja said.
The Prime Minister described Banura as humble and full of potential, noting that his death had come at a time when he still had much to offer.
“We have lost a very humble man who still had much life ahead of him,” she added.
Nabbanja extended condolences to the bereaved family, particularly Banura’s father, Matayo Kyaligonza.
“I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family… May God comfort and strengthen them during this difficult time,” she said.
Banura, who served as the first LCV chairperson of Kikuube District, was widely regarded as instrumental in steering the district’s development agenda.
He died from injuries sustained in a road accident on Saturday evening in Kikuube Town Council.
According to Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the fatal incident occurred in Butyamba Village (Butyamba IDP area), where he was reportedly knocked down by a speeding Toyota Hiace taxi.
Preliminary reports indicate that Banura had stepped out of his vehicle and was engaging with residents when the taxi, reportedly en route to Fort Portal, veered into bystanders, striking him and several others.
“The driver fled the scene immediately after the crash. However, the vehicle has since been recovered and impounded by police,” Rusoke said.
“Efforts are ongoing to identify, trace and arrest the driver to assist with investigations.”
Banura was rushed to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Several other injured individuals were also taken to the facility for treatment.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties or the severity of injuries.
The late Banura, son of NRA bush war veteran Maj Gen (Rtd) Matayo Kyaligonza, was a prominent figure in Kikuube District. His sudden death has sent shockwaves across the region, with leaders and residents mourning his passing.
Police in the Albertine South Region have launched investigations into the incident.
