A normal day it was for Raphael Okiot and his wife, Faith Irene Kwagala, a Grade One Magistrate in Kyenjojo District. The couple arose in good spirits after a pleasant evening together at their home in Seeta, Mukono District. Raphael, a dedicated advocate and lecturer at Uganda Christian University (UCU), was focused on the legal matters awaiting him in court that day, not far from their home.
His wife recounted how they had set alarms to ensure Raphael woke up on time for his trip to Entebbe, where he was scheduled to represent a client. Despite her offer to prepare him breakfast, Raphael declined, eager to embark on his day’s responsibilities.
Tragically, fate intervened in the cruelest manner. Soon after Raphael’s departure, a freak accident occurred that claimed his life in an instant. Witnesses and CCTV footage reveal that a cement mixer truck, its brakes failed, careened out of control, toppling over and crushing Raphael’s car—a vehicle they had acquired just four days earlier.
The news of Raphael’s sudden passing sent shockwaves through family, friends, colleagues, and students alike. He was eulogized as a man of exceptional character, generosity, and brilliance. Colleagues from Tumukunde & Co Advocates remembered him as jovial, loving, and hardworking, always willing to extend a helping hand.
At Uganda Christian University, where Raphael shared his legal expertise with students, he was admired for his dedication and encouragement. One student, Barbra Namata, fondly recalled his supportive nature and genuine concern for their academic progress.
Faith Irene Kwagala described Raphael as a loving and supportive husband, devoted to their children. Their recent purchase of a car symbolized new beginnings and cherished family moments, tragically cut short by fate.
Raphael’s life was one marked by promising legal accomplishments and scholarly pursuits. His untimely death leaves behind a void that resonates deeply within the legal community and beyond.
As we bid farewell to Raphael Okiot, let us remember his unwavering commitment to his family, his profession, and his students. May his memory be a source of inspiration, and may his soul find eternal peace.
In the words of Simon Peter Kinobe, former Uganda Law Society president: “Gone too soon. He was a man of good character. Okiot Raphael, rest in peace. May God give strength to your family.”
Rest well, Raphael Okiot. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and admired you.
