Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde has joined thousands of voices mourning the tragic death of billionaire Sudhir Ruparelia’s son, Rajiv Ruparelia, describing him as “a brother, a visionary, and a force of disruption.”
In a deeply personal eulogy issued on Saturday, May 3, Ssemakadde, shared a long-standing friendship with Rajiv, bonded by their shared ambition to reform Uganda’s socio-economic systems,.
His tribute, written with emotional intensity, cast Rajiv not only as a scion of the Ruparelia business dynasty but as a relentless dreamer whose influence stretched far beyond corporate circles.
“Rajiv was more than a friend; we were brothers,” wrote Ssemakadde. “He embodied the spirit of a generation. Our paths converged in a shared pursuit of a better Uganda.”
The radical new bar president recalled moments of deep personal and professional connection between the two, conversations on justice, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of building a legacy under pressure.
According to Ssemakadde, Rajiv’s energy defied convention. “His radical soul refused to accept the status quo, always pushing boundaries and challenging us to dream bigger. Whether in the courtroom, the boardroom, or the streets, Rajiv’s presence was a catalyst for change.”
Although Rajiv was not formally trained in law, Ssemakadde said his unwavering support for legal reform and human rights advocacy. Rajiv often funded civic initiatives quietly and participated in roundtable discussions with young activists, lawyers, and policy experts, a side of him the public rarely saw.
“Rajiv was a friend of the bar. A pillar of our community. His energy was a spark that ignited every space he entered,” the ULS President said.
Beyond their shared ideals, Ssemakadde reminisced about the camaraderie they built, arguing, laughing, and dreaming into the night. “I will always cherish the nights we spent… moments now tinged with the aching silence of his absence.”
Rajiv’s leadership at the Ruparelia Group was marked by innovation and philanthropy, often steering his father’s conglomerate toward youthful branding, sports development, real estate expansion, and digital innovation. Yet, it is the personal connection that Ssemakadde emphasised most in his tribute.
“As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul, let us honour his memory by carrying forward his work. Let us fight for safer roads and for the just and vibrant world he envisioned,” he concluded.
The ULS chief also extended condolences to the Ruparelia family: “To Mr. Sudhir, Mrs. Jyotsna and the entire Ruparelia family, I offer my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Rest in power, dear Rajiv. The torch is ours now.
