Seth Murari, the father of 23-year-old Martha Ahumuza, who collapsed at Mezo Noir bar in Kololo and later died at Kampala hospital, has vowed to pursue every avenue to uncover the circumstances surrounding his daughter’s death. Murari, who serves as the National Sports and Games Coordinator at the Office of the Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Presidential Advisor on Sport, addressed mourners, expressing his determination to hold those responsible accountable.
“My daughter was vibrant and healthy, and I cannot comprehend her being in a coffin,” Murari stated during the requiem service at All Saints on Saturday in Kampala. “I will do whatever is necessary to determine what transpired leading to her death. Trust me, I will leave no stone unturned.”
Ahumuza was reportedly invited to Mezo Noir bar in the early hours of Wednesday morning by Edward Mutebi, the bar’s manager. She had left another bar in Kololo at approximately 2:00 AM to meet him. At around 3:30 AM, Ahumuza collapsed while having a drink with Mutebi, shocking those present. Mutebi then called Joseph Kalanzi, who rushed Ahumuza to Kampala hospital. Doctors at the hospital confirmed she was brain dead upon arrival.
Conflicting accounts have emerged, with some speculating that Ahumuza may have been poisoned. Her cousin, Brian Kambaho, expressed shock at finding her in the ICU after seeing her jovial just hours before. He described the news of her death as surreal.
Police have arrested Mutebi and Kalanzi to aid in the investigation. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, confirmed their detention at Kira Road police station. Reports also indicate that two of Ahumuza’s friends, who were with her at the previous bar, have been arrested, though police have not officially confirmed this.
Barbara Murari, Ahumuza’s mother, conveyed her disbelief and grief, noting that she had just witnessed her daughter’s graduation from ISBAT University earlier this month. “My daughter had promised me many things, but I only saw her graduation,” she lamented. “I had hoped to see her marry and have children. This sudden death is a shock to us all.” Ahumuza was reportedly working as a human resource officer at a private company in Kampala.
Mezo Noir bar, the scene of the incident, remains sealed off by security personnel.
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