State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Ateenyi, has condemned the shooting of a female motorist by a security officer attached to Speaker Anita Among, calling for professionalism and restraint within the country’s security forces.
The incident, which occurred on April 30 near the Speaker’s residence in Nakasero, Kampala, has sparked public concern over the conduct of armed officers assigned to high-ranking officials.
Police have since arrested the bodyguard, Corporal Humphrey Muhanguzi, who allegedly opened fire following a confrontation with the female driver.
In a statement, Ateenyi commended the swift response by Uganda Police Force, while emphasizing the need for accountability within the security sector.
“Thank you to the PoliceUg for taking action. Officers are encouraged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, taking inspiration from the discipline and restraint of the Special Forces Command,” Ateenyi stated.
He added that the use of force in the incident was unjustified, particularly given that the victim was unarmed.
“It is unjust to shoot at an unarmed civilian,” he said, in remarks that reflect growing concern among leaders and the public over the use of excessive force by security personnel.
According to preliminary police reports, the victim was driving a Toyota Harrier when she became involved in a standoff with the officer along a road frequently used by VIP convoys.
The disagreement reportedly escalated, culminating in the officer discharging his firearm and injuring the woman in the hand.
The victim was rushed to hospital and underwent emergency treatment. Authorities have not yet released her identity, but officials confirmed she is receiving medical care.
Ateenyi extended prayers for her recovery, stating: “I pray for the victim’s full and speedy recovery—may she come out of the theatre, hospital safe and healed.”
He further invoked a biblical message to underscore the need to protect civilians, particularly the vulnerable, quoting Psalm 9:9: “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
The minister’s remarks come amid increasing scrutiny of security operations involving civilian interactions, especially in high-security zones around government officials.
Police confirmed that the suspect was disarmed immediately after the incident and is currently in custody as investigations continue. The firearm used in the shooting has been recovered as part of the inquiry.
Meanwhile, the office of Speaker Anita Among clarified that she was not at her residence at the time of the incident. The Speaker has since reached out to the victim’s family, expressing regret and offering support for medical expenses.
Authorities say the findings of the ongoing investigation will determine the next course of action, including possible criminal charges against the officer.