In a startling turn of events ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections, Rodney Mukula, son of former Minister and NRM Vice Chairman Capt. Mike Mukula, is receiving urgent medical treatment after being poisoned. The revelation came in a heartfelt video message from Nakasero Hospital, where Rodney was admitted following a sudden medical emergency that left his family and supporters deeply shaken.
Rodney, who has built a reputation for his commitment to healthcare and education initiatives in his community, collapsed twice in a single day, prompting immediate medical intervention. He was initially treated at Doctor’s Plaza Hospital before being transferred to Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, where emergency procedures were promptly undertaken. Dr. Moses Byaruhanga, a police toxicologist, confirmed that an official investigation into the poisoning has been launched.
Capt. Mike Mukula, visibly distressed in his video statement, revealed that he had long warned his son against entering politics, concerned about the inherent dangers. “I spent months trying to convince him not to pursue this path. Seeing him in this state only confirms my fears,” the former minister said, reflecting on his protective instincts as a father.
Despite the warnings, Rodney’s determination to serve his community propelled him into the political arena, a decision that now carries serious personal consequences. Capt. Mukula expressed both sorrow and frustration, emphasizing the treacherous nature of politics, marked by scheming and hidden threats.
Rodney, running as an independent candidate against NRM’s Isaac Orego in Soroti City East, is currently stable, but the incident has raised serious concerns about the lengths to which political rivals may go in a high-stakes election season. His candidacy, previously celebrated for its focus on public service, is now overshadowed by fears for his safety.
The Mukula family’s ordeal comes on the heels of another frightening episode: Gladys Mukula, Capt. Mike Mukula’s wife, recently survived a serious car accident at the Clock Tower Flyover. The coincidence of these two harrowing incidents has intensified concerns that the family may be under targeted threats, heightening the sense of urgency around Rodney’s situation.
Amid the chaos, Capt. Mukula urged his son to exercise extreme caution moving forward, emphasizing vigilance in his personal security and awareness of potential dangers. “Now that he has chosen this path, he must be more careful, protecting himself and his associates,” he said, underscoring the lessons learned from this near-tragic event.
As the investigation unfolds, the poisoning of Rodney Mukula stands as a stark reminder of the perils that accompany political ambition in Uganda. The Mukula family’s experience highlights the volatile and often dangerous realities of public service, particularly for those willing to challenge the status quo and advocate for change.
