Minister Defends Businessman Karim Hirji Against Allegations of Mistreating Late Friend’s Children

KAMPALA – The State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has publicly come to the defense of veteran businessman Karim Hirji following the circulation of an online video accusing him of harassing the children of the late Mzee Ramesh Narundas Ruperelia.

Minister Balaam, speaking on November 18, 2025, described the allegations as “unfair and painful,” emphasizing Hirji’s long-standing role as the primary guardian for the family.

According to the Minister, the late Mzee Ramesh passed away in December 1996, leaving behind four young children: Rina, Oboma, Ramesh, and Amina. Balaam stated that Hirji and his late wife, Cham, were entrusted with the responsibility of raising the children and have cared for them “faithfully from that time to the present day.”

“The responsibility of raising these children was entrusted to Mzee Karim Hirji and his dear late wife, Cham,” Balaam said. He highlighted that he has personally known the family since the mid-1990s.

The Minister provided a robust defense of Hirji’s guardianship, detailing the extensive support he has provided over the decades. He asserted that Hirji supported the children “as a true parent,” by providing for their basic needs, school fees, and financial support. Furthermore, Balaam mentioned that Hirji gave them capital and expensive cars to help them establish their own lives and never discriminated against any of them.

In his statement, Balaam underscored the gravity of the current accusations against this backdrop of sustained support. “These current allegations of harassment are extremely serious, especially when directed at a guardian who stepped in when they needed support the most,” he concluded.

The defense from a high-ranking official in the Ministry of Youth and Children Affairs adds a significant dimension to the online controversy, positioning Hirji as a benevolent figure who intervened at a time of great need for the family.