Mourners demand justice and say goodbye to Kabale Manchester United fan

The body of Benjamin Ndyamuhaka, a 36-year-old Manchester United fan allegedly killed by an Arsenal fan, was buried on Wednesday, October 30, at Kabungo Cell in Katenga Parish, Kaharo County, Kabale District, Western Uganda. Friends and family gathered in sadness to say goodbye to Ndyamuhaki, the fifth of eleven children.

Ndyamuhaki was reportedly attacked on Sunday, October 27, at the Kyobugombe Trading Center following an altercation that began after Arsenal and Liverpool drew 2-2 in an English Premier League match.

According to Edmond Tumwesigye, chairman of the LCIII Kaharo County Sub, the clash broke out in the video room when Liverpool scored a late equalizing goal, prompting Ndyamuhaki to celebrate. This celebration, which included throwing popcorn, allegedly sparked an argument with Arsenal fan Onan Byampangi, who then hit Ndyamuhaki with a stick after the match.

“On Monday morning, I was informed that two men had an argument on Sunday evening and one was taken to Bukinda Health Center and later transferred to Rugarama where he died. We are actively searching for the suspect who was last seen in Ntungamo,” Mr Tumwesigye told mourners.

At the burial, Kenneth Atukwase, Mr Ndyamuhaka’s elder brother, described him as loving, hard-working and supportive.

“Our brother loved us very much and worked hard for our family. We are devastated by his untimely death. May he rest in peace,” he said.

Another mourner, Barnard Tumuhimbise, appealed for calm and urged family members not to seek revenge.

“Our son has done nothing to deserve this; God has already decided about his life. Children, do not seek revenge, for God will take it on our behalf,” he said.

Dan Kasaku, chairman of the Rukiga Taxi Drivers Association, remembered Ndyamuhaki as “humble, trustworthy and hard-working”. Benyi was known for his cooperation, truthfulness and humility. We really lost a good man,” he said.

Reverend Michael Asiimwe, parish priest of Rwesasi Church in Uganda, urged mourners and soccer fans to control their emotions, especially during matches.

“I love football, but because I struggle with anger, I avoid match video rooms. If you know you can’t control your anger, stay away. Find ways to deal with it instead of resorting to violence,” he advised.

Alliance for National Transition (ANT) Kigezi Regional Coordinator, Bonny Tumuranze, echoed this advice and warned against mob justice. “We are working with the police to ensure the suspect is arrested and brought to justice,” he assured the community.

Kabale District Police Commander (DPC), Joseph Bakaleke, confirmed an ongoing manhunt for Byampangi, who remains at large.