Benjamin Agaba, a devoted supporter of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has died from severe burns sustained after he set himself on fire in a desperate act of protest. Agaba succumbed to his injuries at Kiruddu Hospital, where he had been fighting for his life since February 26. On that fateful day, he doused himself in a flammable liquid and ignited his body outside the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on Parliamentary Avenue in Kampala.

Agaba’s father, Benjamin Twinomusha, confirmed his son’s death, speaking with a mix of grief and frustration. “The NRM officials who promised to help us disappeared. I have been struggling alone, using whatever little I had to clear the medical bills,” he lamented. His words reflect the deep sense of betrayal felt by Agaba and his family, who had hoped for support from the party he had dedicated his life to.

Eyewitnesses recall the horrifying moment when Agaba’s screams pierced the air as flames engulfed him. Security personnel and bystanders rushed to extinguish the fire, but the injuries were too severe. Agaba’s final act was one of desperation and heartbreak, a fiery testament to his disillusionment with the NRM, a party he had long supported with unwavering loyalty.

A resident of Gomba District, Agaba had spent years composing campaign songs for President Yoweri Museveni, hoping for recognition and a modest reward of Shs3 million. That recognition never came. One of his close friends, speaking anonymously, recalled Agaba’s deep faith in the NRM despite repeated disappointments. “He only asked for 3 million for his work, but they refused. Now, they will send 5 million for his burial. This government is full of hypocrisy,” the friend remarked bitterly.

Agaba’s family had warned him against blind political loyalty. His father had long tried to dissuade him from getting involved in politics, fearing that devotion to politicians often leads to heartbreak. Tragically, those warnings proved true. Agaba’s death has left his family devastated, not only by the loss of a loved one but also by the lack of support from the party he had trusted.

Last week, Emmanuel Dombo, the NRM’s Director of Communication, admitted that Agaba may not have received the support he sought because he “did not meet the right people” at the party secretariat. Dombo had assured the public that the party was “following up” on the matter and promised medical assistance. However, that help came too late. Agaba’s death has raised questions about the NRM’s commitment to its supporters, especially those who dedicate their lives to the party’s cause.

Agaba’s story is one of hope, loyalty, and ultimately, betrayal. He believed in the NRM and its promises, but his faith was met with indifference. His tragic death has sparked outrage and sadness among those who knew him and those who have followed his story. Many see his act as a desperate cry for recognition and support, a cry that went unanswered until it was too late.

As Agaba’s family prepares to lay him to rest, they are left to grapple with the harsh reality of his death. The NRM has promised to contribute Shs5 million for his burial, a gesture that has been met with mixed emotions. While the financial support is appreciated, it is a painful reminder that the recognition and assistance Agaba sought in life are now being offered only in death.

Agaba’s death has also reignited discussions about the treatment of political supporters in Uganda. Many have expressed concern over the lack of support for grassroots activists and loyalists who often dedicate their time, energy, and resources to political causes. His story serves as a stark reminder of the risks of blind political loyalty and the need for political parties to take better care of their supporters.

In the end, Agaba’s charred body, once filled with hope and belief, will soon be laid to rest. His death is a tragic loss, not only for his family but also for the many who saw him as a symbol of unwavering loyalty and dedication. As his family mourns, they are left to wonder if his sacrifice will lead to any meaningful change or if his story will be forgotten, like so many others before him.

Benjamin Agaba’s death is a somber reminder of the human cost of political disillusionment. His story is a call to action for political leaders to recognize and support those who dedicate their lives to their causes. It is also a plea for greater empathy and accountability in a system that often overlooks the struggles of its most loyal supporters. As Uganda reflects on this tragedy, one can only hope that Agaba’s death will not be in vain and that it will inspire a more compassionate and responsive political culture.