KAMPALA.
The leader of the National Unity Platform, Robert Kyagulanyi, has announced the death of Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of the party’s Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, and criticized his continued detention.
In a statement issued Wednesday , Kyagulanyi said Ms Mufumbiro died shortly after 3:00am following a prolonged battle with cancer.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our dear sister and comrade,” he said.
He noted that at the time of her death, Mufumbiro remained in custody at Luzira Upper Prison, which he described as unjust.
“At the time of her passing, her dear husband Waiswa remains detained… for no crime whatsoever. His only crime is speaking out against injustice and misrule,” Kyagulanyi said.
Kyagulanyi also disputed the charges facing Mufumbiro, which include alleged unlawful military drilling.
He said the accusations relate to an incident said to have occurred on February 12, 2025, at the party’s headquarters, but insisted Mufumbiro was elsewhere at the time.
“In fact, on that day, Waiswa never stepped there as he was at Mulago Cancer Institute with the wife,” he said, adding that authorities were aware of this.
The opposition leader further criticized the judiciary for repeatedly denying bail to Mufumbiro despite what he described as humanitarian grounds.
“He has made an impassioned plea to the Court to be released on bail so that he takes care of his sick wife, but it has been denied. The injustice!” Kyagulanyi said.
Mufumbiro has been in detention since September 2025 and has appeared in court several times, with his legal team filing multiple bail applications.
While some charges have previously been dropped, he remains in custody over other counts related to alleged military activities.
Kyagulanyi linked the case to what he described as broader political persecution of opposition members but expressed hope for change.
“As difficult as it is, we remain hopeful that we shall overcome some day,” he said.
He also conveyed condolences to Mufumbiro and his family during their bereavement.