Adam Ampa Besigye, son of prominent Ugandan opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye, has announced the death of his firstborn son, Righteous Ariho, fondly known as Rai, who was the only grandson of the retired colonel.
In an emotional Facebook post, Adam said Ariho passed away in the early hours of Thursday while under treatment in the Intensive Care Unit at Mulago Hospital in Kampala.
The child, born in March 2020 during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, died in September 2026 at the age of six.
Adam described fatherhood as the greatest gift of his life, calling it “an eternal gift from God.” He said Ariho’s arrival brought immense joy to the family during a difficult period marked by the pandemic.
“It’s with profound pain and a heavy heart I’ve never imagined I would ever carry, that I announce the loss of my beloved and only firstborn son, Righteous Ariho (Rai),” he wrote.
Leaning on his faith for comfort, Adam expressed belief that his son was now at peace.
“You fought until the end, my warrior. You now rest peacefully in the arms of the King of Peace, Jesus Christ,” he wrote, closing the tribute with, “Daddy loves you always Rai. Until we meet again.”
Throughout the post, Adam referred to his son in tender terms, calling him “my firstborn,” “my warrior,” and “my Rai.” He also cited a verse from Psalms, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” and described Ariho as having become his guardian angel watching over him.
The announcement has drawn an outpouring of sympathy for the Besigye family, who have endured significant personal and political strain in recent years. Ariho’s death adds a deeply personal sorrow to a family already navigating difficult circumstances.