Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao has criticised the conduct of a security officer attached to Speaker Anita Among following a shooting incident involving a female motorist near the Speaker’s residence in Nakasero, Kampala.
The incident, which occurred on April 30, has drawn public attention after a bodyguard allegedly shot at a woman driving a Toyota Harrier during a confrontation at the entrance to the Speaker’s residence.
The officer was later arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
In a statement, Mao described the incident as serious and raised concerns over attempts to misrepresent what happened.
“Attempting murder is hideous enough. Spinning the story, lying, telling tall tales to cover up a crime worsens the situation,” Mao said.
He rejected claims that the firearm discharged accidentally while the officer struck the vehicle with the butt of his gun, saying such explanations weaken accountability in the use of force.
“The rules governing lethal force are well known—you don’t unleash it unless your life or the life of another is in danger,” he added.
Mao also revealed a personal connection to the victim, stating that she is married to someone he knows and is related to a close friend.
He said this makes it important for authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.
The minister further questioned the security arrangements at the residence, suggesting that non-lethal measures could have been used to control access.
“As for safety measures, a movable heavy metal barrier in front of the gate would stop intruders who want to access the driveway,” Mao said.
“Where there is no reason, there should at least be an excuse. In this case, there appears to be none.”
Speaker Among has said she was not at the residence at the time of the incident and has called for investigations to be expedited, including outreach to the victim’s family.