CCTV Review Underway After Master Parrot Dies in Hit-and-Run Accident

Uganda’s entertainment industry is mourning the death of veteran musician David Sifayo, popularly known as Master Parrot, who died on Monday evening following a hit-and-run accident along the Northern Bypass in Masanafu.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the accident occurred at around 7:30pm when Master Parrot was allegedly struck by an unidentified vehicle while walking along the road. He was rushed to Mulago National Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

“The driver fled the scene after the accident and remains unidentified. We are reviewing CCTV footage as investigations continue to establish both the vehicle and the driver involved,” Owoyesigyire said.

News of his passing sent shockwaves through Uganda’s music industry, with fellow artists and friends paying tribute to one of the pioneers of the country’s urban music scene.

Former Firebase Crew colleague and opposition leader Bobi Wine expressed his grief on social media, writing: “Just got the terrible news that we’ve lost our brother Master Parrot. The memories of our funny conversations and hearty laughter will remain with us. Until we meet again, my friend.”

Uganda National Musicians Federation president Eddy Kenzo also paid tribute, saying: “Sad news. Rest in peace, my brother Master Parrot.”

Family members said they only learned of the tragedy through a phone call. His elder sister, Lydia, said she initially struggled to believe the news.

“It was around 8pm when I received a call informing me that my brother had died, but I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “When my husband called his phone, it was the police who answered and informed us that his body was being taken to Mulago Hospital.”

After being transferred from Mulago, his body was taken to his residence in Wabiduku-Balintuma Zone, Kiwatule, where he lived with his mother. It was later moved to the National Theatre for public viewing ahead of his burial on Wednesday in Kamengo, Butembe Sirinya B, along the Mpigi-Masaka Road.

In recent years, Master Parrot had largely stayed away from the public eye as he reportedly struggled with personal challenges. Earlier this year, videos showing him in a distressed condition circulated online, raising concern among fans and fellow musicians. Reports indicated that he had been battling alcohol addiction and related mental health difficulties.

His mother, Josephine Nakayiza, had publicly appealed for assistance to help him access rehabilitation services. Fellow musician Qute Kaye, who has openly shared his own recovery journey, was among those who called for support and treatment for the singer.