Former Monitor Reporter Risdel Kasasira Killed in Road Accident

Risdel Kasasira, a former security reporter for the Daily Monitor, tragically lost his life in a road accident on Masaka Road, police confirmed. Kasasira, aged 45, was traveling with his family when the incident occurred. According to witness Divina Kemiyingo, his wife, Charlotte Nshimire, was driving the family’s Toyota Fielder when she reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which then plunged into a swamp.

The accident took place on Friday at around 1:00 p.m. in Kalagala Village, along the Lyantonde-Kashagama Road. Greater Masaka Police spokesperson ASP Twaha Kasirye stated that the vehicle, registered under UBK 851Y, was speeding before it submerged in the swamp following the crash. Kasasira was pronounced dead at the scene, while his wife and two children, Aretha Ntone, 5, and Elerio Nowangye Elerio, 3, were rushed to Lyantonde Hospital for treatment.

Kasasira, who had a deep aversion to driving, was returning from a visit to his home village in Kashari, Mbarara District, with his family.

Throughout his career, Kasasira had been a prominent reporter, particularly known for covering the war against Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia and Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His reporting brought him into the limelight, especially with his work on significant stories, including the publication of General David Sejusa’s letter, which revealed alleged plans to eliminate top government and security officials. This story, along with the exposure of the so-called “Muhoozi Project,” led to serious repercussions for Daily Monitor, including a three-month closure by security forces in search of evidence.

In addition to his work at the Daily Monitor, Kasasira was also a stringer for the Associated Press news agency.

Kasasira’s legacy as a committed and fearless journalist will be remembered by his colleagues, including close friend Richard Wanambwa, who was his best man during his 2018 wedding. The journalism community mourns the loss of a dedicated reporter whose work made a significant impact.