The Bushenyi District Electoral Commission Returning Officer, Gaston Muhangi, is under scrutiny after reportedly knocking dead four buffaloes in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The incident occurred on Friday night at Kikorongo, along the Kasese–Mbarara highway. According to reports, Muhangi had allegedly been drinking in Kasese before deciding to drive himself.
The vehicle UG 0794B involved in the accident has since been towed to Kasese Central Police Station, where it is being held as police investigations continue.
Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is one of Uganda’s most popular and biodiverse protected areas. Its is a home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, buffaloes, leopards, and chimpanzees, as well as more than 600 bird species.
The park’s open savannah, crater lakes, and wetlands make it a major attraction for both local and international tourists. It also supports surrounding communities through tourism revenue and conservation-related projects.
However, human–wildlife conflict remains a growing concern in and around the park. Animals often stray near highways that cut through conservation areas, leading to accidents and losses for both wildlife and motorists. Conservationists have frequently urged drivers to observe speed limits and remain cautious, especially at night, when wildlife movement increases.
This latest incident adds to ongoing discussions about road safety and conservation awareness along the Kasese–Mbarara highway, which passes close to several wildlife corridors within the park.
