Luuka, Uganda: Ms. Gladys Aliyinza, wife of President Museveni’s Deputy Press Secretary Faruk Kirunda, tragically perished in a fatal road crash on Thursday. The accident occurred at Nawansega village in Bukoova Town Council, Luuka District.
Ms. Aliyinza, a former Luuka Woman MP contestant and a hopeful for the same seat in 2026, was traveling with her political assistant, Yusuf Biita, when their vehicle collided head-on with a sugarcane truck. Both Ms. Aliyinza and Mr. Biita died instantly at the scene.
Mr. Kirunda shared the heartbreaking news in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, expressing his profound grief. “It’s a heavy blow on our young family, and we pray to Allah to see us through,” he wrote. He also thanked everyone for their outpouring of sympathy and support.
Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the Minister for Presidency, confirmed the tragic news, offering her condolences. “With a heavy heart, I announce the untimely death of Ms. Gladys Aliyinza, the wife of my Personal Assistant, Hajji @kirunda_faruk, who passed on earlier today in a road accident.
I extend my sincere condolences to Hajji Kirunda, his family, and the entire Office of the President. May Gladys’ Soul Rest In Eternal Peace,” she posted on her official X account.
Residents of the accident area described it as a notorious black spot with a steep slope, making it difficult for drivers to see oncoming vehicles. Reports indicate that the deceased’s 4WD double cabin was speeding at the time of the crash.
The driver, Mr. Kanika Ramathan, was evacuated and is currently nursing critical injuries at Iganga General Hospital Nakavule in Iganga District. The bodies of Ms. Aliyinza and Mr. Biita were taken for post-mortem examination.
Details regarding the status of the occupants of the Tata truck, registration UAU 073G, loaded with sugarcanes involved in the collision, remain unknown.
