Kampala — The VIP ward at Mulago Hospital was yesterday a hive of activity as visitors thronged to check on the Prime Minister who was admitted there following a helicopter accident on Monday.

Prof. Apolo Nsibambi, who was full of smiles as he answered to his mobile phone that rang incessantly, was being attended to by his wife, Esther. He got off the phone to briefly narrate events before the crash.

"The helicopter was okay from the beginning until one of the pilots came to tell us that it had developed a mechanical problem and we should prepare for an emergency landing. But just after he told us, all of a sudden, the helicopter began spinning, twisting and whirling in the air. I was scared.

"We were on top of Bugiri Hospital and to avoid crashing into it, the pilot chose to look for a plain ground. All of a sudden, part of the helicopter hit a tree. I felt like there was a bang and I ran out of the plane. One of my shoes was off.

"We are lucky that it didn't burn up the hospital. I am still in some pain although I sit and walk but with difficulty. I am so grateful to Mulago doctors who have treated me very well. I know I might leave here on Thursday or Friday."