Leaders speak out on boat tragedy

ACCIDENT

Many leaders have described the death as a tragedy.

President Yoweri Museveni said the Government will work on registering and monitoring the boats that ply Lake Victoria, saying it is one of the dangerous lakes in East Africa.

The President who said he crossed it thrice on a canoe, says safety measures must be put in place.

Fomer minister and MP Sam Bitangaro who says he lost two relatives in the accident called for use of life jackets when people are travelling on the lake.

"I am saddened by the death of those who passed away as a result of the boat tragedy. My heart goes out to their families, relatives and friends. May the Lord comfort them," he said.

"I am deeply troubled by lack of safety measures and regulation regarding water transport. Going forward, passengers on boats and ships should not be permitted to travel on water vessels without life jackets as well as other lifesaving gadgets," he added.

The Member of Parliament for Kyadondo East Kyagulanyi Ssenatmu has said the death of people on the ill-fated boat on Lake Victoria is very painful.

He says many of the people who died were known to him.

 "I still cannot believe that we lost so many young people on that boat. My heart is heavy. I lost several personal friends in the accident and it is extremely painful. We continue to pray for the families of all who lost loved ones, and for a quick recovery to those who are nursing injuries," the MP sent his message on his facebook page.