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Murdered: Amanya Maclean
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By our Reporter
Ibanda - Over the weekend, news of the tragic death of Amanya Maclean, the Human Resource Officer of Ibanda Municipality, sent shockwaves across the district and the nation. Police and colleagues have described the incident as a brutal case of domestic violence. Maclean died at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Ishaka on Saturday, April 5, 2025, after battling for her life for several days. Sources close to the family allege that she was fatally assaulted by her husband, Amwiine Innocent, who serves as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) registrar for Ibanda District. The incident reportedly stemmed from accusations of infidelity, and has left residents reeling in grief and disbelief.
Genesis of the tragedy
Multiple sources say the fatal events began when Amwiine Innocent was tipped off by a woman who claimed that Maclean was having an affair—though no evidence was presented. Fueled by jealousy and rage, Amwiine allegedly confronted his wife. What started as a verbal argument escalated into a violent physical attack.
Witnesses claim that Amwiine severely beat Maclean, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.
Amwiine Innocent, Mackline's husband
Chilling details emerge from a dying declaration
According to a reliable source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Maclean detailed the abuse in a dying declaration, which is reportedly in the possession of her father, Mr. Kapere Ruranga.
In the statement, Maclean revealed that Amwiine had previously beaten her in November 2024. After that attack, she attempted to drive herself to the hospital but collapsed in a place called Omukiremerere, where boda boda riders found her and rushed her to Kagongo Health Center. Amwiine later picked her up, took her to Ruhoko Health Centre IV, and admitted her to a private room. However, he allegedly removed her from the hospital, took her home, and locked her inside, where she was kept in a coma-like state and treated by a medic he brought in.
It wasn’t until one of Amwiine’s brothers grew concerned and alerted her father that she was rescued and transferred to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, then later to KIU Hospital Ishaka, where she regained partial consciousness and disclosed that her husband had beaten her.
Following this, the father reported the case to Bugongi Police Station and recorded a statement with officers, who collected the dying declaration. He was then advised to open an assault case at Ibanda Police Station, which he did in March 2025. The father had obtained the dying declaration from his daughter in the presence of police officers from Bugongi. When Amwiine was summoned, he reportedly refused to cooperate, allegedly mocking the police and saying they should "go to lawyers."
Corruption allegations and escape
Sources further claim that Amwiine attempted to bribe authorities to cover up the case. He allegedly sold a building in Nyabuhikye for UGX 80 million and received UGX 50 million in cash, which insiders say helped fund his activities and escape. During the height of the investigations, Amwiine is alleged to have hidden at a Municipal MP’s residence, shielded by political allies. As an NRM registrar and campaign mobilizer, he reportedly enjoys protection from top NRM officials, including some members of the security forces and a UPDF lieutenant.
One of the workmates narrated that even though people knew what was taking place, no one could dare say anything because you would afec consequences.
Police launch manhunt
Ibanda District Police Commander, confirmed that an arrest warrant has been issued and that Amwiine is now on the run. "We have issued a warrant of arrest and launched a manhunt for Amwiine Innocent. We condemn this senseless act of domestic violence and assure the public that justice will be served," said the DPC.
A nation in mourning
Maclean’s death has ignited public outrage and deep sorrow, particularly among her colleagues, former classmates (OGs), and friends, who describe her as a dedicated, warm-hearted, and hardworking civil servant. Social media has been flooded with tributes and demands for swift justice.
“Maclean’s death is not just a family tragedy—it is a national shame,” said one women’s rights activist in Ibanda.
“This cannot be swept under the rug because the suspect holds a political position. We demand justice—not just for Maclean, but for every woman who suffers in silence.”
The incident has revived national conversation around gender-based violence, with activists and the public urging government and law enforcement to take stronger, decisive action to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable—regardless of their political or social status.
Torch Media Africa
