Retired Police officer Sam Omara who managed Besigye’s “Walk to Work” protest dies

Uganda’s Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Sam Omara, died on Monday at the age of 65 after battling cancer. 

He passed away at Mulago National Referral Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for prostate cancer and kidney complications.

Afande Omara is known for his battle-hardiness against Dr. Kizza Besigye and other opposition leaders during the 2011 Walk to Work protests.

Sam Omara had been bedridden for a while, with reports of his hospitalization dating back to last year.

The 65-year-old retired Assistant Commissioner of Police breathed his last on Monday morning at 7 a.m.

Details about the burial arrangements will follow later.

After his sickness became public, the police leadership came out and promised him support.

He served as the Assistant Commissioner of Police and was notably the Kampala North Police Operations Commander.

Omara gained public attention for his role in managing the 2011 “Walk to Work” protests led by opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. His firm stance during these demonstrations earned him both commendation and criticism.​

After retiring from the Uganda Police Force in 2020, Omara joined Arrow Security Services Limited in August 2023 as the Deputy CEO in charge of operations. This move marked a significant career shift, and he expressed contentment with his new role, citing a substantial increase in his monthly earnings compared to his police salary.​

In addition to his security career, Omara has been involved in agriculture. Through the Northern Uganda Resilience Initiative (NURI), he cultivated three acres of hybrid sunflower, earning over UGX 1 million. He utilized these funds to construct a permanent house and purchase livestock, demonstrating his adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.​

Omara’s career reflects a blend of public service, private sector involvement, and agricultural entrepreneurship, showcasing his diverse skill set and adaptability.​