Suicide Note left by Lt. Ariho’s Final Moments

The crime scene of Lt Ariho's suicide in Nakirebe, Mpigi district

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is mourning the death of Lt. Amon Ariho, who tragically took his own life, leaving behind a heartfelt note exposing alleged corruption within the military.

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, expressed deep sadness over the incident, saying:

“I am personally hurt by the suicide of our young officer, Lt. Ariho. He died because of the corruption Mzee (President Museveni) and I have been talking about for a long time now. His blood will be avenged, and the thieves will pay.”

What Happened?

Lt. Ariho, from the UPDF Engineers Brigade, was found dead at a football field in Nakirebe, near Wakiso and Mpigi districts. Witnesses reported that he parked his black car (UBJ 493Q), dispersed players on the field, and used an SMG rifle to end his life.

Before his death, Lt. Ariho left a detailed letter addressed to the UPDF leadership. He blamed corruption, particularly targeting a superior, Maj. Ogwang, for his struggles.

Lt. Ariho’s Suicide NoteIn his note, Lt. Ariho praised the CDF’s leadership but highlighted grievances, including blocked projects, unpaid debts, and mistreatment of engineers. Below is part of his note:

UPDF FAMILY

Dear CDF,

I want to thank you for your good leadership, and may God continue blessing you. I hope this message finds you well. Kindly visit the Engineers Brigade and review some issues.

I joined the Army in 2013, completed basic training, and later undertook cadet training after a few years. I have been serving as a Lieutenant. As I leave, these are the issues I would like to discuss:

Eng. Ogwang is the cause of my demise. After being deployed to the Engineers Brigade, he dismissed every engineer who was working within the Central region, even without allowing them to serve under him for a single day. Please track the record of works completed before Maj. Ogwang took over.

For instance, visit Mpigi District and Butambala. Specifically, at Gombe Hospital in Butambala, Maj. Ogwang found a block project already constructed, worth 100 million UGX. He accused us of being thieves, claiming we made blocks for sale. This is untrue; the previous leader was strategic and planned for the future.

Maj. Ogwang did not purchase any blocks in Gomba District because he found a soft landing. However, he failed to settle the debts he inherited, and these are now weighing heavily on us.

Dear CDF, harmful propaganda and selfish interests can lead to unfair treatment of good people while promoting the wrong elements. I urge you to visit the ground and make proper changes.

I, Lt. Amon Ariho (RO/13999), am leaving this world. I kindly request that my body be taken home to Rukiga District, Kamwezi, Kibanda, Katungu.

Dear CDF, I humbly request that you take good care of the children I leave behind, as their father is no longer alive.

Source: Chimpreports