Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye is grieving the loss of his six-year-old grandson, Righteous Ariho, who passed away while receiving treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Ariho, affectionately known as Rai, was the only grandson of Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and prominent figure in Uganda's opposition politics. His death was announced by his father, Adam Ampa Besigye, who described Rai as his beloved and only firstborn child.
According to Adam, Rai died in the early hours of Thursday while in the intensive care unit at Mulago Hospital. Adam shared a heartfelt tribute to his son, reflecting on Rai's birth in March 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. He described becoming Rai's father as one of the greatest blessings of his life. Adam expressed his pain and grief, stating that he had never imagined he would have to announce the loss of his child.
Adam praised his son's strength and resilience throughout his illness, saying Rai continued fighting until the end while receiving treatment at Mulago Hospital. He described Rai as his warrior and guardian angel, watching over him from above. Adam turned to scripture for comfort, accompanying his tribute with a verse from Psalm 34:18, which reads, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
In his tribute, Adam repeatedly referred to Rai as his firstborn and warrior, expressing his love for the young boy. He ended the tribute with a final message to his son, saying, "Until we meet again, Rai." The news of Rai's death has sent shockwaves through Uganda's opposition politics, with many leaders expected to pay their condolences to Besigye and his family.
Kizza Besigye has been a prominent figure in Uganda's opposition politics for many years, having contested in four presidential elections. His family has been a significant part of his public life, and Rai's death is expected to have a profound impact on him. The Ugandan community is coming together to mourn the loss of the young boy, with many expressing their condolences to the Besigye family.
The cause of Rai's illness and death has not been publicly disclosed, but it is understood that he was receiving treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital. The hospital is one of the leading medical facilities in Uganda, and it is likely that Rai received the best possible care. Despite this, the young boy's condition deteriorated, and he passed away.
The Besigye family is expected to hold a memorial service for Rai, which will be attended by friends, family, and colleagues. The service will provide an opportunity for those who knew Rai to pay their respects and offer condolences to the family. The family will also be holding a private burial ceremony, which will be attended by close relatives and friends.
Key points
- Kizza Besigye's six-year-old grandson, Righteous Ariho, dies at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
- Ariho was the only grandson of Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and prominent figure in Uganda's opposition politics.
- Adam Ampa Besigye announced the death of his son, describing him as his beloved and only firstborn child.
