The nation of Uganda was left in a state of shock this morning upon hearing news of the tragic death of State Minister for Labour and Oyam North MP, Col (rtd) Charles Okello Engola.
The late minister was reportedly shot dead by his own bodyguard, Private Wilson Sabiti, as he was entering his vehicle. The bodyguard subsequently fled the scene before taking his own life at a nearby trading center in Kyanja, Nakawa Division.
Voters, friends, and relatives from Engola’s constituency have converged at his ancestral home to mourn with his family. His siblings described him as a humorous, kind, and social person who was the only pillar the family relied upon. The deceased’s sister, Eunice Amodo, said she saw some signs but could not comprehend what they meant.
Before becoming the Oyam North MP and State Minister for Labor, Rtd Col Charles Okello Engola served as the district chair for Apac before Oyam was curved out. He was also the former speaker of Oyam District, where Benson Dila, the current LC V chair, was the chairperson.
The late minister was seen last week in his constituency and was described by friends and local leaders as a courageous and transparent leader who earned himself the nickname ‘Macodwogo.’ A small meeting led by the district chair was convened at his home to discuss the tragedy.
The mood at Engola’s ancestral village in Awangi A, Iceme sub-county, Oyam District was somber as many were yet to come to terms with the sad news. The deceased is expected to be buried on May 13th.
