commentary 3 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Uncontrolled Anger and the Devastating Consequences: A Lesson from Uganda's Streets

A recent tragic incident involving the death of musician Moses Matovu, allegedly due to a love dispute, highlights Uganda's growing problem with violence fueled by uncontrolled anger. This commentary draws parallels to King Solomon's wisdom on self-mastery and the failure of rule of law in the nation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/one-lover-in-jail-other-in-the-grave-and-the-folly-of-uncontrolled-anger--5618874

The recent, senseless death of national icon Moses Matovu, affectionately known as ‘Afrigo’, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked anger. One man now faces imprisonment, while Matovu lies in his grave, a victim of an alleged dispute over a woman.

In a society where women reportedly outnumber men by nearly two million, the intensity of love triangles leading to violence seems paradoxical. Yet, as the commentary points out, Ugandans often resort to brutal solutions rather than seeking peaceful resolutions.

King Solomon’s ancient wisdom from Proverbs 16:32 resonates deeply: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” True strength, Solomon suggested, lies not in conquering external forces but in mastering one’s own emotions and impulses. Restraint, especially when pride demands a violent reaction, requires profound inner strength.

As a criminal defense attorney, the author frequently witnesses the human cost of anger behind prison walls. Many convictions stem from individuals who allowed their temper to dictate their actions. Uganda, it is argued, has veered away from peaceful dispute settlement, embracing pride, violence, and vengeance even for minor provocations.

This descent into lawlessness means that arguments over trivial matters can escalate into violent confrontations, land disputes turn bloody, and personal disputes over relationships can end in tragedy, as tragically seen with ‘Afrigo’s’ death.

The erosion of faith in the police and the justice system compels citizens to seek their own retribution. The commentary criticizes leadership for claiming stability while ignoring the underlying decay of the rule of law, suggesting that when justice is perceived as a favor rather than a right, leadership has failed.

Ultimately, the piece warns that embracing lawlessness, even for those who feel unaffected, carries inherent risks. The ‘river of lawlessness’ can unexpectedly engulf anyone, at the most inconvenient times.