The Air Force Chief General Kigundu has tragically passed away in a bathroom incident, confirms the Uganda People’s Defense Forces officials.

The Ugandan military community is mourning the unexpected loss of Brigadier General Stephen Kiggundu, the Deputy Commander of UPDF Air Force. According to an announcement made by Defence and Military spokesperson Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, Gen Kiggundu tragically passed away in a bathroom accident at his official residence in Entebbe.

Reports suggest that Gen Kiggundu was in good health throughout the day until the evening when the unfortunate incident occurred. Although details surrounding the accident are still unclear, sources indicate that it may have been an electrocution accident while he was taking a shower. The circumstances of the accident are under investigation.

Brigadier General Kiggundu, who previously served as the commander of the Soroti Air Force wing, was promoted to his current position in November 2022. His appointment as Deputy Chief of the UPDF Air Force came during a reshuffle that saw significant changes in the leadership of the Air Force, including the promotion of Major General Charles Okidi to the rank of Lieutenant General as the new Air Force chief.

Gen Kiggundu’s tenure as Deputy Commander of the UPDF Air Force coincided with efforts to address challenges faced by the national defense, including reducing the number of crash accidents and strengthening air force capabilities. Despite the tragic loss, there has been a notable decrease in the frequency of crashes under his leadership.

Brigadier General Kulayigye expressed the profound impact of Gen Kiggundu’s passing on the UPDF fraternity and the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces Air Force. He noted that Gen Kiggundu’s services were invaluable, especially during a time when his leadership was essential for enhancing air force capabilities.

The sudden demise of Brigadier General Stephen Kiggundu has left a void in the Ugandan military community, and his contributions to the UPDF Air Force will be deeply missed. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death, the military community mourns the loss of a dedicated leader and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.