KAMPALA
Ugandan activist and torture survivor, Marinos Alexandros has died after a long illness, following years of alleged torture, exile and threats linked to her political activism.
Alexandros, who was reportedly abducted on March 30, 2022, in Mbuya, Kampala, died early Sunday morning at about 1:30am, a source close to her family confirmed.
Human rights campaigners say she was tortured after being taken into custody by security operatives, with her ordeal allegedly triggered by playing opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi’s (Bobi Wine) music on loud speakers.
Following her release, Alexandros publicly accused her captors of abuse, after which she is said to have received repeated death threats. Her residence was later raided at night by unidentified men, though she was not at home at the time.
Fearing for her life, Alexandros fled to Nairobi, Kenya, where she sought refuge under the protection of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). While in exile, she battled multiple health complications, reportedly contracted during her detention.
“Out of the abduction and torture ordeal, Marinos contracted several diseases, including HIV/AIDS,” said Bobi Wine, the NUP President.
Her worsening condition prompted her return to Uganda several weeks ago to receive medical care while under the support of her family.
Opposition leader, Bobi Wine described her death as a “painful loss” and accused the government of perpetuating a climate of fear against dissenters. “Fight on, comrade! The struggle for freedom and democracy in Uganda is poorer without you, but the evil regime will never have the last laugh.” he said.
By press time, security officials had not issued a statement in response to the allegations surrounding Alexandros’ death linked to her abduction and detention.
She is remembered by colleagues as a passionate campaigner for political freedoms and an outspoken critic of human rights abuses in Uganda.
“We lost our sister Marinos Alexandros, tortured by Museveni’s regime for daring to choose freedom. Her pain became resistance. Her blood feeds Africa’s struggle. ✊🏿 Rest in Power, comrade. The fight continues,” @believeokpe2 posted on X.
“…You paid the highest price for freedom. Your blood waters the struggle, and your spirit lives on!” mourned Human Rights Lawyer, Pius Jadwar.
