Tragedy in Mzizi – A Call to Faith and Tolerance
On the night of October 29, 2024, an unimaginable tragedy struck the Mzizi ‘A’ village in Kagadi District. Two individuals, Munyirambe David (alias Richard) and Baguma Obed, sons of Isakara Yokonia and Kabugho Elinora, now deceased, launched a brutal attack on their own family members, leading to the deaths of eight people and the severe injury of eight others. This horrific act, reportedly driven by the perpetrators’ resentment towards their family’s Seventh-day Adventist faith, has left the community in grief and sorrow.
All those murdered were active members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church Mzizi, a congregation recently organized in November 2024. Among the victims was Elder Munyirambe Boniface, who served faithfully as both a church elder and the church clerk. His dedication, like that of the other victims, is a testament to their commitment to their faith, even in the face of persecution.
How It Happened
At around 9:00 p.m. on October 29, Munyirambe David and Baguma Obed allegedly confronted their parents and other family members in an attempt to force them to abandon their faith and join a new religion the two brothers had formed, known as “God Holy Spirit Son Man Man.” The perpetrators had persistently tried to convert their relatives since they left the Seventh-day Adventist faith in 2022. Refusing to give in, their family continued to stand firm in their beliefs, which tragically led to this brutal attack.
Neutralization of the Perpetrators
As security forces, comprising police and UPDF personnel, responded to the incident, they faced violent resistance from Munyirambe David and Baguma Obed. The two suspects began pushing stones from the hills where they had taken refuge and later confronted the officers wielding machetes claiming they are bullet resistant. When they resisted arrest and attempted to attack the security officers, they were ultimately neutralized by the security forces in self-defense and to prevent further harm.
Names and Ages of the Deceased
Isakara Yokonia – 76 years, Kabugho Elinora – 64 years, Munyirambe Boniface – 41 years (Elder and church clerk of the Mzizi Adventist Church), Baluku Ferdinand – 13 years, Kabugho Oliver – 13 years, Masiika Kabaganyi – 3 years, Kabugho Anita – 4 years, Muhindo Praise – 7 years. Elder Munyirambe Boniface was son to Isakara Yokonia and Kabugho Elinora.
Names of the Injured
Biira Christine – 24 years, Kakimwa Nipola – 45 years, Nzabara Rogers, Bambi Joy – 28 years, Zakaria Isaac, Birungi Biira. Two other children (identities yet to be confirmed).
A Message of Condolence
The Seventh-day Adventist Church deeply mourns the loss of these faithful members of the Mzizi congregation and extends our heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and the entire community. Our prayers go out to those who are grieving, and we seek divine comfort for those recovering from their injuries.
A Stand Against Violence in the Name of Faith
The Seventh-day Adventist Church condemns these violent actions and reaffirms that such acts are entirely against our faith’s teachings. Our faith calls us to tolerance, love, and respect for every individual’s choice, and we reject any attempt to impose beliefs through coercion or violence. The actions of Munyirambe David and Baguma Obed are heartbreaking and highlight the misuse of faith to justify harm. Their family members, faithful Adventists, remained resolute in their beliefs until the end.
Reports indicate that the brothers claimed to have received visions about the state of the world, prompting them to “cleanse” their household, beginning with those in their family and extending their violent plans to others in the church. These tragic events reinforce the Adventist Church’s stance that true Christianity embodies compassion and freedom of conscience.
Standing Strong in Faith Amidst Persecution
Elder Munyirambe Boniface, his family, and the other members of the Mzizi Adventist Church exemplified a deep commitment to their faith, standing strong in their beliefs despite pressure and threats. Their courage is a powerful reminder of the endurance Christ’s followers are called to embody, even under persecution. As 1 Peter 4:17 reminds us, “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God.” Their resolve and dedication are an inspiring testimony to us all.
A Call for Prayer and Reflection
We urge all Adventists, as well as our wider Christian family, to pray for the community of Mzizi and for peace in our hearts and homes. This tragedy reminds us of the importance of living our faith with tolerance and compassion, embodying Christ’s call to “love one another” and respect the God-given freedom of choice.
May God’s comfort be with the bereaved families, and may we all be reminded to be beacons of hope, love, and peace, living as Christ’s followers in harmony and respect.
Yours
Pr. MAGEZI EDWARD KASAIJA
Communications Director
Western Uganda Field.