Kizza Besigye’s six-year-old grandson passes away

Righteous, who was popularly known as "Rai," passed away in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala. 

The devastating loss was publicly shared by his father, Adam Ampa Besigye, in an emotional message where he honored his firstborn son - and Dr. Besigye’s only grandson - noting that the young child fought bravely until the end. 

“It is with profound pain and a heavy heart I have never imagined I would ever carry that I announce the loss of my beloved and only firstborn son, Righteous Ariho (Rai): Rai, the only grandson of my father, Rt. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, fell asleep in the early hours of Thursday at the ICU of Mulago Hospital,” part of Adam’s tribute to Rai read.

While Adam confirmed that his son had been admitted to the ICU, he did not disclose the specific illness that led to the child's hospitalization.

Rai was born in March 2020, during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to his father, Adam Ampa Besigye.

Adam said the birth of his son was one of the greatest gifts he has received in his life, adding that Rai gave him the opportunity to become a father. 

Additionally, Kizza Besigye’s son described the grandson as a warrior who fought until his end and is now peacefully resting.

“My Rai, you came into this world during the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic and gave me the greatest gift of my life. The opportunity to become your father. An eternal gift from God. You fought until the end, my warrior. You now rest peacefully in the arms of the King of Peace, Jesus Christ,” Adam Besigye noted.

In his tribute, Adam quoted Psalm 34:18 as he bid farewell to his son, offering reassurance that the Lord uplifts those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit.

He further expressed his love for his son, affirming that his love for his child is eternal until they reunite.

Following the announcement of the passing of Kizza Besigye’s only grandson, members of the public have joined the family in mourning Rai.

Some have expressed the grief they feel for losing a young soul as they send their condolences and words of affirmation to the family.

This personal tragedy comes during a particularly difficult time for the family. Dr. Kizza Besigye remains incarcerated in Luzira Prison, where he is currently facing treason charges. 

The former presidential candidate has also been dealing with significant health issues in recent months, including a health scare in July when he collapsed during court proceedings and was subsequently admitted to Mulago Hospital.