Published on 03/05/2025
The sudden passing of Rajiv Ruparelia, Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, in a tragic car crash on May 3, 2025, has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s business and political spheres, prompting heartfelt tributes from leaders across the country.
Dr. Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University—one of the flagship institutions under the Ruparelia Group—expressed his sorrow in a Saturday statement:
“It is hard to believe that Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia is gone. I am still trying to come to terms with the news. Life can be painfully unfair sometimes. To the family of Mr. Sudhir Ruparelia and Mrs. Jyotsna Ruparelia, I cannot begin to imagine the pain you are going through. Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with you.”
He further added:
“To all his friends, colleagues, loved ones, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, I share your grief and stand with you during this time of sorrow. Rajiv was full of life, vision, and passion. He believed in building a better future and worked tirelessly to uplift others. His kindness, energy, and commitment to excellence touched countless lives, including mine. May we all find comfort in the memories he left us and the legacy he built. May Rajiv’s soul rest in eternal peace.”
Buganda Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, also extended condolences on behalf of Mengo:
“We extend our deepest sympathies to our dear friend Sudhir Ruparelia on the tragic and untimely passing of his beloved son, Rajiv Ruparelia. This is a heartbreaking loss. May the Almighty grant you strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time, and may He receive the soul of the departed with mercy and grace.”
National Unity Platform leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) shared his grief on social media:
“Extremely shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia. He was a humble, kind, and generous young man. My sincere thoughts and condolences go out to the family of Mr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the Ugandan business community, and everyone whose life Rajiv touched. May his soul rest in peace.”
Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, paid tribute to Rajiv’s entrepreneurial spirit:
“I would like to express my sincere condolences to Mr. Sudhir Ruparelia, his family, the staff and management of the Ruparelia Group, as well as friends and the wider business community, upon the tragic passing of Rajiv Ruparelia, the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group.”
She added:
“His untimely death has deprived our country of a young and enterprising mind who made significant contributions to our economy and the employment sector. May God comfort those in mourning and grant his soul eternal rest.”
Her deputy, Thomas Tayebwa, also expressed his shock and sorrow:
“It is so disheartening to learn of Rajiv Ruparelia’s death in a fatal accident last night. It is hard to comprehend! He was full of life and loved this country with all his heart. Like his father, he was an accomplished entrepreneur with a big heart for humanity. My condolences to Mr. Sudhir and Mrs. Jyotsna Ruparelia on this painful loss. May you be granted the strength to overcome the grief and pain this death has caused your family.”
Kin Kariisa, Group CEO of Next Media, reflected on Rajiv’s business acumen and potential:
“The untimely passing of Rajiv Ruparelia in that tragic motor accident is very sad news. Rajiv had over time grown into quite the visionary leader in the Ruparelia Group, with lots of even more potential to be realized. His loss is deeply felt across our business community and beyond. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Ruparelia family during this difficult time. May Rajiv’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find strength and solace.”
The overwhelming expressions of sympathy highlight the deep impression Rajiv left on Uganda’s socio-economic development. As arrangements for his memorial service take shape, the Ruparelia family is expected to release further details in the coming days.
