Residents of Bugezya Cell, Itamya Ward in Kidera Town Council are mourning the death of former Local Council I chairperson Richard Magezi, who died days after losing his seat in the recently concluded village elections.
Magezi, who had served as LCI chairperson for four consecutive terms, reportedly fell ill after the election and died while being rushed to Kidera Health Centre IV.
His widow, Annette Nankya, said the loss took a heavy toll on him.
“My husband was under a lot of stress after losing the seat he had held for four terms. As our children were taking him to Kidera Health Centre IV for treatment, he lost consciousness and died before reaching the facility,” Ms Nankya said.
A resident of Bugezya Cell, Julius Kivumbi, said Magezi appeared devastated by the results and vented his frustration to neighbors.
“He told us he felt betrayed by the electorate. He later went to a bar and consumed a lot of waragi,” Mr Kivumbi said.
According to Kivumbi, Magezi was worried about life after office because he relied on income from endorsing local documents, including land sale agreements.
“He told us he no longer saw hope for the future and wondered how he would survive after losing the position,” Mr Kivumbi added.
In the election, Magezi polled 30 votes against 87 garnered by Isaac Kalyango, who was declared winner.
Magezi was a brother of former Budiope West Member of Parliament Ibrahim Kyoto Muruli.
Burial arrangements are underway at his ancestral home in Bugezya Cell, Kidera Town Council, Buyende District.