Kampala — THE condition of the 62-year-old man who was hit by a stray bullet during the September riots in Kampala is deteriorating, despite the three surgical operations he has undergone.

Joseph Kasozi was shot on September 12 while at the Mapeera Bakateyamba's Home for the Elderly in Nalukolongo. Since then, he has been lying in pain at Rubaga Hospital (Surgical Ward), where he has undergone three operations.

According to the home's administrator, Sister Theresa Basemera, Kasozi is in critical condition. "He is being supported by oxygen and can no longer recognise anyone. The wound on his stomach has started oozing pus.

The management of the home has been caring for Kasozi, but the hospital bill, which has accumulated to sh3.5m is beyond their budget. They are, therefore, calling upon Good Samaritans to come to their rescue.

On the fateful day, Kasozi, who has stayed at the home since his youth, was chatting with his friends outside his room when a bullet hit him.

"He suddenly fell down and we saw him writhe in pain, with blood oozing out of his stomach," says one of his friends.

Sister Basemera says it was difficult to rush Kasozi to hospital since all the roads had been blocked. Luckily, Rubaga Hospital later sent an ambulance to pick him up.