NUP supporters in Masaka honor late Frank Ssenteza’s legacy

Supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in Masaka City gathered to honor the memory of the late Frank Ssenteza, a former bodyguard of NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, also known as Bobi Wine.

The event included prayers, a cleanup of Ssenteza’s gravesite, and reflections on his contributions to the struggle for change in Uganda.

Mzee John Kalanzi , the late Ssenteza’s father, expressed his frustration with politicians who have sought to exploit his family for political gain.

"I have realized that these people want to use us to fulfill their political agendas rather than genuinely believing in what my son Ssenteza stood for,” Mzee Kalanzi said.

“It’s not only opposition parties but also some from the ruling NRM. They claim my son’s death was due to the negligence of Kyagulanyi, but no amount of words will deviate us from supporting NUP.”

Kalanzi affirmed his family’s unwavering commitment to the ideals that Ssenteza stood for.

"We are proud of the path Ssenteza chose, and we will continue to honor his sacrifices," he added.

Ssebina Javiira, a senior NUP leader in Masaka, said the gathering was held to celebrate Ssenteza’s contributions and remember his selfless dedication to Uganda’s struggle for change.

"Ssenteza was neither a politician nor seeking any elective position. He was simply committed to the cause for change," Javiira remarked.

“We will work tirelessly to ensure that his dream and the dreams of others like him who sacrificed their lives are realized.”

He  criticized the political climate as Uganda approaches the next election season, accusing some politicians of prioritizing votes over the sacrifices made by individuals like Ssenteza.

"Many politicians are now focused solely on getting elected without considering the struggles and sacrifices made by people like Ssenteza,” he said.

“It’s very unfortunate. These sacrifices must not be forgotten.”

NUP supporters from Nyendo-Ssenyange also pledged to uphold Ssenteza’s ideals, emphasizing their determination to continue the fight for democracy and change in Uganda.

"Even though it is a long and difficult journey, we will not give up until we realize Ssenteza’s dream and the vision of others who lost their lives during this struggle," some supporters vowed.

Frank Ssenteza, a member of Kyagulanyi’s security team, died during the heated 2021 election period.

The circumstances of his death remain controversial.

According to a statement issued by Kyagulanyi, Ssenteza was deliberately run over by a military vehicle.

"I regret to announce the murder of my security team member Francis Ssenteza Kalibala, also known as Frank,” Kyagulanyi tweeted.

“He was deliberately run over by military-police truck No. H4DF 2382 in Busega as we rushed journalist Ashraf Kasirye to Nsambya Hospital for emergency treatment.”

However, the UPDF disputed Kyagulanyi’s account.

Brig. Gen. Flavia Byekwaso, then UPDF spokesperson, stated on social media that Ssenteza died after attempting to jump onto a fast-moving vehicle.

This contradiction continues to spark debate, but NUP members remain steadfast in their belief that Ssenteza was a victim of state brutality.

NUP supporters emphasized their commitment to keeping Ssenteza’s legacy alive. They highlighted his unwavering dedication to the struggle for justice and democracy in Uganda.

"Ssenteza was a symbol of selfless sacrifice. He was committed to seeing a better Uganda,” Ssebina said.

“It is our duty to ensure that his dreams and the dreams of many others who lost their lives are fulfilled.”

As the election period draws closer, supporters of NUP continue to push for change, vowing to honor Ssenteza’s legacy by working toward the Uganda he envisioned.