Influential Ugandan clergyman and ardent supporter of President Yoweri Museveni, Pastor Aloysius Bugingo, has found himself in the midst of a shooting attack that claimed the life of his bodyguard. 

Ugandan police disclosed on Wednesday that unidentified assailants targeted Bugingo’s vehicle on Tuesday evening, firing upon it before swiftly escaping on a motorcycle. 

The attack resulted in injuries to Bugingo and the tragic death of his bodyguard, Muhumuza Richard.

Ugandan police promptly initiated an investigation into what they described as “the attempted murder of Pastor Aloysius Bugingo and the unfortunate killing of his bodyguard, Muhumuza Richard.” Despite the injuries sustained during the attack, Bugingo managed to transport the vehicle to Mulago Hospital.

Regrettably, Muhumuza Richard succumbed to the assault, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Bugingo is currently undergoing medical treatment and is closely monitored by healthcare professionals.

In response to the incident, Ugandan police issued a statement, saying, “Despite sustaining injuries during the attack, Pastor Aloysius Bugingo managed to transport the vehicle to Mulago Hospital. Regrettably, his bodyguard, Muhumuza Richard, succumbed to the assault and was confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital. Pastor Aloysius Bugingo is undergoing medical treatment and is under close monitoring.”

Pastor Bugingo, who leads the House of Prayer Ministries, one of Uganda’s influential Pentecostal churches, has been a vocal advocate for President Museveni. 

The clergyman also owns television and radio channels where he provides unwavering support to President Museveni and his son, often positioning the latter as a potential successor.

Bugingo’s backing of the president has made him a controversial figure, drawing criticism from the opposition, whom he openly critiques in his sermons. 

The motive behind the attack remains under investigation, and security forces are actively working to identify and apprehend the assailants.