Written By | Peter Luzinda
Kampala,
Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of opposition deputy spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, has died after battling cancer, raising fresh concerns over the continued detention of political actors in Uganda.
According to a statement released by opposition NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, who is also currently in hiding, Edith passed away shortly after 3:00am on Tuesday following what was described as a “hard-fought battle” with the disease. At the time of her death, her husband, Waiswa, remained in detention at Luzira Upper Prison, where he is facing charges related to alleged unlawful activities.
Kyagulanyi alongside other opposition has criticised the circumstances surrounding his detention, arguing that he had repeatedly sought bail in order to care for his ailing wife, but his requests were denied.
They further claim that the charges stem from an incident said to have occurred on February 12, 2025, at the party’s headquarters. However, supporters insist Waiswa was not present at the time, stating that he was attending to his wife at Mulago Cancer Institute.
The case has drawn criticism from opposition figures, who accuse authorities and the judiciary of unfair treatment and politically motivated prosecution—claims the government has previously denied in similar cases.
By press time, there had been no official response from government or judicial authorities regarding the latest developments.
Edith’s death has sparked an outpouring of sympathy from political allies and supporters, with many calling for compassion and reconsideration of Waiswa’s detention, especially in light of the family’s loss.
Torch Media Africa