Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of Uganda (F.M.U) has suspended the competition driving licenses of the rally crew for Umar Dauda and his co-driver, Hamza Kakande.
The crew knocked 7 people during the SMC rally (won by Ronald Ssebuguzi) on Sunday at the Mpanga – Kalagala section, killing 2 on the spot including a 4 year old girl identified Rehmah Nanyanzi and the other boy’s identity was not easily known.
The 5 knocked were severely injured and are now admitted at the main referral Mulago Hospital.
They have been since identified as Trose Nakanwagi (10 years) daughter of Chris Lubega, Hanifah Nantale (6) daughter of Juma Kayemba, Mawejje Kabeba (15) son of Dumba and Herman Kasambula (15) son of Nankabirwa all of Zirobwe.
The fifth victim Aisha Nabagala, 27, sustained chest and back injuries and was admitted at JEK Hospital in Busiika.
The announcement was communicated by the body’s president, Jack Wavamunno at a special press briefing held at their offices at the National Council of Sports on Monday.
“We are very saddened by the unfortunate event. The crew is hereby suspended until further notice”, Wavamunno, who appeared visibly devastated remarked.
Driver in shock:
Umar Dauda, who was driving a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 4 lost control at the Mpanga T section and knocked 7 people near Kireeba village, Zirobwa.
“Up to now he is still crying and in a state of shock”, FMU publicist, Hajji Nkambwe added.
“Given that state, it is evident he is not mentally ready for any event for some time now. He will need some months off the scene before under going rehabilitation”, he told the press.
Safety Measures:
Wavamuuno added that they are planning to adhere upon having strict safety measures during rally events.
“We have always done the sensitization of masses but Uganda is soon transforming to another level of having rally events held in private sections – sugar plantations, forests, ranches, and on open private land”, Wavamunno, who is marking just 5 months of his tenure said.
He however expressed concern about the forthcoming Pearl of Africa rally and the availability of sponsors when such unfortunate scenes happen.
“The international Rallying body (F.I.A) will need a special rally safety report so that they grant Uganda the go ahead for the Pearl of Africa Rally”, he explained further.
Bereaved and affected families:
Families of the affected people are going to be compensated by the Insurance company that was specifically in charge of the race.
