KAMPALA
Edith Katende Nabunya Mufumbiro, wife to National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, has died after a prolonged battle with cancer.
According to the NUP president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, Katende passed away shortly after 3:00am.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our dear sister and comrade, Edith Katende Mufumbiro,” he said, adding that she had “fought a hard battle with cancer.”
At the time of her death, Mufumbiro remained on remand at Luzira Upper Prison, where he has been detained since September 2025, over multiple charges, including incitement to commit an offence and conspiracy to commit a felony.
According to the charge sheet, Mufumbiro is accused of inciting NUP supporters to commit violence against security personnel on September 4, 2025, in Kampala. The offence falls under Section 21(1) of the Penal Code Act. He also faces charges of illegal drilling and conspiracy, which he has denied.
Opposition leaders have previously criticised his continued detention, describing the charges as politically motivated. Kyagulanyi said Mufumbiro had made several unsuccessful bail applications, including pleas to be released to care for his ailing wife, but all in vain.
The couple wedded in December 2022 at Namirembe Cathedral, and survived with children.
NUP secretary general David Lewis Rubongoya described Katende’s death as painful, citing the circumstances surrounding her husband’s detention.
“How sad that those who wield power in Uganda never give a damn about the amount of pain they have caused to so many people! No words can describe this level of injustice,” Rubongoya said in a condolence message.
Wakiso Woman MP Betty Ethel Naluyima and Nakawa Division speaker Godfrey Luyombya also expressed condolences, calling for justice and prayers for the bereaved family.
“…The husband, Comrade Alex Mufumbiro’s detention at Luzira feels like more added pain,” Luyombya said.
Details surrounding Katende’s death and burial arrangements were still scanty by press time.
