The Uganda Law Society (ULS) under the Radical New Bar has held a memorial session for national rugby player Sidney Gongondyo, who died following mob violence on June 5th, 2026, in Ntinda, as part of a broader national discussion on the underlying causes of mob justice and measures needed to address the growing challenge.
Addressing journalists at the 19th RNB Live on Thursday, June 11th, 2026, at ULS House, Plot 5A John Babiiha Road, the Society used the platform to honour Gongondyo’s memory while examining why communities are increasingly resorting to taking the law into their own hands.
In remarks read by Head of Rule of Law Afrua Apio on behalf of CEO Christine Awori, the Society noted that several videos shared online and police reports indicate that he was attacked by members of the public on allegations of theft and later succumbed to his injuries, despite being rushed to hospital.
Senior Associate Edwin Buluma Wabwire, speaking both as a lawyer and a rugby fan, drew comparisons with the 2019 killing of advocate Peter Kibirango.
“In both occurrences with Sydney and Peter, those tenets were missing. Article 126 talks about the courts of judicature mandated to deliver justice on behalf of the people. Where was this justice?” he said.
Filmmaker Christopher Mogal Muchwa, who had previously filmed Gongondyo, called for greater community engagement and more effective use of storytelling to influence public attitudes.
“I think the issue of anger is not something we should reckon with because you could make a mistake now and someone beats you up for it. I think it’s the only way we could sensitize people a little bit more,” he noted.
SSP Donald Muhwezi, representing the Inspector General of Police, urged members of the public to report suspected crimes rather than resorting to mob action.
“We are appealing to the public to always report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station,” he said, confirming that arrests had been made and investigations were ongoing.
The session observed a moment of silence in memory of Gongondyo and emphasized that due process must be respected even where guilt appears evident, with speakers calling for stronger institutions and increased public sensitization to prevent further loss of life.
