A debate within Uganda’s leadership has exposed sharp differences over how to interpret a controversial trend where some citizens publicly celebrate the deaths of prominent figures.
The issue came to the fore in Parliament following remarks by ICT and National Guidance Minister Chris Baryomunsi during a tribute to the late MP Helen Nakimuli.
Speaking on Wednesday, Baryomunsi condemned what he described as a “strange behaviour” among sections of Ugandans who express satisfaction when public figures die.
He urged citizens to uphold cultural values and refrain from glorifying death, warning that such reactions undermine societal norms.
“I want to make a comment to Ugandans that there is a strange behavior emerging where a section of people celebrate others’ deaths and wish for those who are alive to die,” Baryomunsi told Parliament. “Let us desist from celebrating human death.”
His remarks have since drawn a response from Principal Road Safety Officer in the Ministry of Works and Transport, Ronald Amanyire, who challenged the minister’s position.
In a statement, Amanyire said the reactions being witnessed should not be viewed as unusual, arguing that they reflect long-standing frustrations among citizens.
“There is nothing ‘strange’ about this behaviour people are suddenly noticing,” he said. “It is wrong, yes. It is painful to watch, yes. But it did not fall from the sky.”
He argued that such responses are tied to the experiences of many Ugandans over time, particularly concerns about accountability and governance.
“People are not reacting in a vacuum. They are reacting to a system,” Amanyire said, adding that leaders should reflect on the conditions that may have contributed to the situation instead of expressing shock.
Amanyire also pointed to past incidents where leaders have faced hostility in public spaces, saying these moments should be seen as a sign of growing discontent.
“When leaders are heckled or rejected in public spaces, it is not simply indiscipline. It is a signal that people feel unheard,” he noted.
At the same time, he made it clear that he does not support celebrating death, describing the behaviour as troubling despite his explanation of its possible causes.
“I know this behaviour is not right. It hurts me too,” he said, while recounting instances where he has personally faced insults online.
The exchange between the two officials reflects a wider discussion about public trust and the relationship between citizens and leaders.
While Baryomunsi has called for restraint and respect for cultural values, Amanyire’s remarks point to deeper concerns about how public grievances are addressed.