Bunyoro Kingdom has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Prince Baguma Patrick Jolly Ateenyi, who died in a road accident late Friday night on the Busega Express Highway, part of Kampala’s Northern Bypass.
Prince Baguma, a son of the late Omubiito Ramuji of Katasiha in Hoima, was a prominent cultural and political figure in Bunyoro.
His death was confirmed in a social media post by State Minister for Youth and Children, Balaam Barugahara, who hails from the Bunyoro sub-region. He described the loss as heartbreaking and promised to communicate burial arrangements soon.
His passing has sparked widespread sorrow both in his home region and nationally, with tributes flooding social media from political leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens alike.
A well-known member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Baguma had a long record of civic engagement and public service. He contested for the Hoima Municipality parliamentary seat in 2016 and remained active in local politics, community mobilization, and youth mentorship.
The Kabalega Old Boys Association, which counts Baguma among its distinguished alumni, also paid tribute to his memory, while close friends and colleagues praised his humility, wisdom, and tireless commitment to uplifting his community.
Ismail Kasule, one of those who worked closely with him, said Baguma was more than a leader—he was a mentor who offered guidance daily and inspired many through his generosity and loyalty.
However, the tragic accident has also stirred unease, after MP Musinguzi claimed in a social media post that Baguma may have been targeted due to his political stance. The MP alleged that Baguma had been under surveillance prior to the crash.
Police are yet to comment or confirm the cause of the accident, and no official investigation details have been released.