By Arnest Tumwesige
Gulu: The Acholi National Resistance Movement (NRM) Publicity Secretaries Forum has expressed appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his intervention following the tragic Opit Travellers bus accident in Omoro District that claimed lives and left dozens of people injured.
In a statement issued on behalf of the bereaved families and survivors, the Forum commended the President for extending financial assistance to families that lost their loved ones and victims who sustained injuries in the crash.
The President provided UGX 5 million to each bereaved family and UGX 1 million to each hospitalized victim to support burial arrangements, medical expenses, and other urgent needs arising from the tragedy.
The Opit Travellers bus accident occurred along the Kampala-Gulu Highway in Omoro District on 7 July 2026, initially leaving 14 people confirmed dead and 28 others injured. The death toll later rose to 15 after one of the injured victims succumbed to injuries, while survivors continued receiving treatment at various health facilities.
The condolence support was delivered on behalf of President Museveni by Lillian Aber, the State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, during a ceremony held inside Gulu City council hall.
Speaking during the handover, Minister Aber conveyed the President’s condolences to the affected families and assured survivors still undergoing treatment of continued government support until they fully recover.
According to Oyet Samuel Agwani, Chairperson of the Acholi NRM Publicity Secretaries Forum, the President’s intervention has provided much-needed relief to families facing one of the most painful moments of their lives.
“Your Excellency’s fatherly care and swift response demonstrate true servant leadership. This support has not only helped with burial and medical expenses but has also comforted the hearts of the affected families, assuring them that the Government of Uganda stands with them,” Mr. Agwani said.
He added that the timely intervention had restored hope and dignity among affected families who were struggling to cope with the emotional and financial burden caused by the accident.
The Forum said the President’s gesture reflects the NRM government’s commitment to standing with citizens during moments of crisis, particularly when communities experience unexpected tragedies.
“The support extended to the victims and their families demonstrates compassion and concern for the welfare of Ugandans regardless of their circumstances,” the Forum noted.
The Acholi NRM Publicity Secretaries Forum further prayed for continued blessings upon President Museveni, the First Family, and his efforts in serving the people of Uganda.
The Opit bus accident has renewed calls for strengthened road safety measures, improved emergency response systems, and enhanced support mechanisms for families affected by road crashes across the country.
The function was attended by Maj. Gen Felix Busizoori the 4th division UPDF Commander, the RCC, Aber Gifter the NRM chairperson of Gulu City, Acire Labeja Gunya the City Mayor, Martin Ojara Mapenduzi the Member of Parliament for Bardele-Layibi division among other dignitaries.
