Man Sets Himself on Fire Near Parliament, Claims Political Persecution

Benjamin Agaba, a young man, set himself on fire near Parliament this morning, contacted Robert Mutebi, a journalist from Salt TV, whom he begged to capture his final moments as he prepared to end his life.  

The incident occurred at around 7:35 AM when Agaba called Mutebi, pleading with him to record his suicide attempt. Agaba doused himself in fuel and set himself ablaze, claiming he wanted to leave this world due to the hardships he has faced.  

Agaba, who was later rescued, shared his story, revealing that his decision to set himself on fire was driven by frustration and despair. He accused members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) of assaulting him after he refused to switch his allegiance from the National Resistance Movement (NRM). He claimed that NUP supporters beat him severely, destroyed his property, and left him financially ruined.  

Agaba explained that he had borrowed money from a Money Lender to support his father, who had lost his land due to unpaid debts. Despite his efforts, the money was stolen, leaving him unable to repay the loan. He further revealed that his father was evicted from their land, and the family was left homeless.  

Agaba also stated that he had sought help from the NRM, but his pleas were ignored. He expressed his frustration, saying that he was born in Ibanda but currently lives with his father in Kyaboobo Village, Kigezi Sub-county, where they are struggling to survive.  

This is not the first time Agaba has contemplated suicide. He revealed that he had attempted to take his life in 2019 after losing UGX 40,000 meant for his father's medical treatment. At that time, he was left with no option but to bury his father by the roadside due to a lack of funds.  

Following the incident, Afande Charles Twiine, the spokesperson for Parliament's security, confirmed that Agaba had been rescued and was receiving medical attention. Twiine also stated that Agaba had previously sought help at Parliament but was turned away. He added that security personnel had been instructed to assist Agaba and ensure his safety.