Author:
Justine Nakimuli K Odwongo
Psychiatric Nurses Consultant in the National Health Service -UK
Since 15/02/2026, many have observed that Martin Bukenya’s mother has been harshly criticized for her perceived failings. Sudden tragedies are being exploited by online bloggers for content, putting people’s psychological well-being at risk.
Martin’s mother, sister, and immediate family will be permanently affected.
As president of the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Association (UK) and a mental health practitioner for many years in the UK. I am deeply aware of how social media discourse—often based on unverified claims—can compound pain and retraumatise those who are grieving. In Uganda, we have recently seen the death of two young people, TikToker Skys and Martin Bukenya. The death of both has, tragically, been accompanied by exploitation and content that lacks sensitivity. This article calls for compassionate reporting, urgent access to mental health support for such families, and a recommitment by bloggers and platforms to ethical, trauma-informed storytelling.
Online content is data that lives beyond the moment; it does not simply disappear. We should advocate for ethical reporting that allows people to mourn safely, in confidence, and with dignity. Families affected by tragedy should be supported to seek psychological help rather than judged or subjected to further harm.
Martin’s mother has reportedly faced significant distress during this period. In the face of ongoing media scrutiny, it is crucial that bloggers refrain from intrusive or sensational interviews and that authorities provide timely, respectful updates to the public. This supports not only the family’s well-being but public understanding of the case.
My thoughts also go to the young lady in hiding, hoping that everything will disappear with time. This is only the beginning, and the impact could be detrimental.
A CALL FOR ACTION:
For those close to such families, please signpost them to immediate access to culturally appropriate mental health support.
A practice for Ethical reporting by bloggers and media platforms: verify information, avoid sensationalism, respect privacy, and provide helplines or resources.
Transparent communication from police and authorities to aid public understanding while protecting the family from harassment.
Depression, suicide, severe anxiety, psychotic depression, and trauma can all be triggered by insensitive reporting. We must learn from this tragedy and prioritize mental health and community healing.
Respect for mourners is essential to protect mental health and to uphold human dignity in a time of grief.
Justine Nakimuli K Odwongo
President Uganda Nurses And midwives’ association-UK
Nurse consultant NHS
PHD Research Student LJMU