Uganda Minister of Labour, Employment shot dead

The minister of Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations in Uganda, Retired Colonel Charles Okello Engola has been shot dead.

Engola was killed by his bodyguard who was a soldier early Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

It is unclear what led to the shooting, and whether there was an argument between the soldier and Col Engola.

The identity of the soldier has not yet been confirmed, but he reportedly shot himself dead after killing the minister.

According to eyewitnesses, the soldier had also been firing shots in the air in the neighbourhood before taking his own life.

Some reports suggest that several people may have been injured in the incident.

Videos circulating on social media show locals gathering at the scene in shock.

Col Engola was a high-ranking government official who had previously served as a deputy minister for defence.

His death has been confirmed by the Speaker of Uganda’s parliament, who expressed her condolences during a session on Tuesday morning.

“This morning I received the sad news that Hon Engola has been shot by his bodyguard and after, shot himself. May his soul rest in peace. That was God’s plan. We can’t change anything,” Anita Among told MPs.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still unclear, and investigations are ongoing.