Tragedy at Kabuusu: Fire Razes Home of Late DP Icon Dr. Kawanga Ssemogerere

Friday, June 27, 2025 | www.ugandatoday.co.ug

Kampala — A tragic fire outbreak on the morning of Friday, June 27, 2025, engulfed the Kabuusu, Lubaga residence of the late Democratic Party (DP) stalwart Dr. Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere, sparking emotional scenes among family, neighbours, and political sympathizers who gathered in disbelief.

According to eyewitnesses, thick smoke was seen billowing from the rear wing of the storied home shortly before 9:00 a.m. Efforts by local residents to quell the flames using makeshift tools proved futile until the Uganda Police Fire Brigade arrived on site. The extent of the damage is yet to be officially assessed, but preliminary reports indicate that family heirlooms, rare photographs, and important historical archives stored at the residence may have been lost.

No fatalities have been reported, and police investigations into the cause of the fire are underway. A source close to the family confirmed that some of Dr. Ssemogerere’s descendants were present at the residence during the outbreak but managed to escape unhurt.

A Towering Political Figure Remembered

The incident has reopened the collective memory of many Ugandans about the towering legacy of Dr. Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere, one of Uganda’s most principled and enduring statesmen. He passed away on November 18, 2022, at the age of 90, marking the end of a remarkable political journey that spanned over six decades.

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Often referred to as “the gentleman of Ugandan politics,” Ssemogerere served as the President General of the Democratic Party (DP) for over 25 years. A staunch advocate for constitutionalism, democratic governance, and non-violence, he was twice a presidential candidate—in 1980 and 1996—and also served in several ministerial positions under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government before returning to the opposition.

His residence in Kabuusu had become a symbol of both political heritage and intellectual thought in post-independence Uganda. It regularly hosted delegations of scholars, political figures, and young leaders seeking wisdom and historical insight into Uganda’s democratic struggles.

An Emotional Outpouring

Leaders across the political divide have expressed sympathy to the Ssemogerere family. DP President Norbert Mao posted on X (formerly Twitter), “This is a sad day for us all. Dr. Ssemogerere’s home is more than a building; it is a repository of our history. We pray for strength for the family and await a thorough investigation into the fire.”

Relatives at the scene told Uganda Today that they are devastated by the loss but grateful that no lives were lost in the fire. They called on the government and well-wishers to support efforts to preserve the legacy of the late statesman, including possible reconstruction and archival digitization of surviving materials.

Investigation Underway

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed that a full forensic team had been dispatched to investigate the cause of the fire. He also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information as investigations proceed.

Ugandans are urged to stay tuned to www.ugandatoday.co.ug for updates on this developing story.