Grief has engulfed Uganda’s opposition circles following the death of Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro.
The sad news was announced on Tuesday morning by NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who said Katende passed away 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,” Kyagulanyi said in a statement, describing the deceased as a committed supporter of the struggle for justice.
Katende’s death comes at a particularly painful time for the family, as her husband, Waiswa, remains on remand at Luzira Upper Prison. According to Kyagulanyi, Waiswa has been in detention over what the opposition describes as politically motivated charges.
He claims Waiswa and several other NUP supporters were accused of “unlawful drilling” allegedly conducted on February 12, 2025, at the party’s headquarters. However, Kyagulanyi insists that on the said date, Waiswa was attending to his ailing wife at Mulago Cancer Institute.
“The judiciary, fully aware of these facts, has chosen to conspire in this persecution,” Kyagulanyi alleged, adding that repeated applications for bail by Waiswa had been denied despite pleas to allow him care for his critically ill wife.
The development has sparked renewed criticism from opposition leaders and supporters, who accuse the state of using the justice system to silence dissent. Government officials have not yet publicly responded to the claims.
Katende’s passing has intensified calls for Waiswa’s release, with sympathizers arguing that he should be granted an opportunity to mourn and participate in burial arrangements.
Kyagulanyi urged supporters to remain hopeful despite the loss and ongoing challenges. “As difficult as it is, we remain hopeful that we shall overcome someday,” he said, extending condolences to the bereaved family.
Burial arrangements for the late Katende had not yet been announced by press time.
