Kampala businessman Lwasa Emmanuel was reportedly denied entry at the vigil for the late Rajiv Ruparelia, held at the Ruparelia family residence in Kololo, Kampala, on Saturday night. According to sources close to the proceedings, Lwasa attempted to sign a condolence book designated for Kampala’s elite tycoons but was directed to sign in the general mourners’ book instead. Feeling slighted by the gesture, Lwasa is said to have left the vigil prematurely, expressing frustration over what he perceived as disrespect.
The vigil, which has drawn a steady stream of dignitaries, business leaders, and members of the public, is being held ahead of Rajiv Ruparelia’s cremation, scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, at the Hindu crematorium in Lugogo. The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning, as they come to terms with the tragic loss of Rajiv, who died in a car crash at the Busabala flyover in the early hours of Saturday. The incident has highlighted the close-knit nature of Kampala’s business community and the sensitivities surrounding high-profile funerals.