By Alfred Opio
BUDAKA — A tragic road accident has claimed two lives along the busy Mbale–Tirinyi Road in Budaka District, raising fresh concerns over reckless driving and road safety in Eastern Uganda.
The fatal crash occurred on April 17, 2026, at around 11:05 a.m. at Kamonkoli, involving a silver Mercedes Benz (registration UBE 954L) and a motorcycle (registration UGB 126Z).
According to police, the accident was caused by careless overtaking, a common but dangerous driving behavior that continues to claim lives on Uganda’s highways.
The deceased have been identified as Fred Tumusiime, an engineer at Kamuge Seed School in Pallisa District, and Kanyago Agali, a peasant from Bukatikoko Village in Budaka District, who was traveling as a passenger on the motorcycle. Both victims died on the spot due to the severity of the impact.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Mercedes Benz was traveling from Mbale towards Budaka, while the motorcycle was heading in the opposite direction. The collision occurred when the driver of the car allegedly attempted a risky overtaking maneuver, leading to a head-on crash.
Police officers led by Budaka District Traffic Officer ASP Daniel Chemongesi responded swiftly to the scene, documented evidence, and transferred the bodies to Budaka Health Centre IV mortuary for postmortem examination.
The involved vehicles have been impounded at Budaka Police Station pending inspection, while the driver of the car remains on the run. Authorities have launched a manhunt and are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest.
Bukedi North Region Police spokesperson ASP Wilfred Kyempasa condemned reckless driving and urged all motorists to observe traffic rules.
“This accident could have been avoided. We continue to warn drivers against dangerous overtaking and urge all road users to prioritize safety,” he said.
The incident adds to a growing number of fatal crashes along the Mbale–Tirinyi corridor, sparking renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and increased public awareness on road safety.
As investigations continue, authorities emphasize that responsible driving remains critical in preventing further loss of life on Uganda’s roads.
