Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, has passed away following a battle with cancer.
Her death was announced on Wednesday morning by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, who described her as a “dear sister and comrade.”
According to the statement, Edith Katende Mufumbiro passed on shortly after 3:00am after what was described as a hard-fought fight against cancer.
At the time of her passing, her husband, Mr Waiswa, remains on remand at Luzira Upper Prison, where he is being held over charges related to alleged unlawful Drilling activities.
In his message, Mr Kyagulanyi stated that Mr Waiswa has been in detention over charges of “unlawful drilling,” which authorities allege took place on February 12, 2025, at the party’s headquarters. However, he claimed that on the said date, Mr Waiswa was at the Mulago Cancer Institute attending to his ailing wife.
The NUP leader further noted that Mr Waiswa had applied for bail multiple times, including requests to be released to care for his sick wife, but these applications were unsuccessful.
“As difficult as it is, we remain hopeful that we shall overcome some day,” Mr Kyagulanyi said in his condolence message, while calling for strength for the bereaved family.
The passing of Ms Katende has drawn sympathy from party supporters and members of the public, with many expressing concern over the circumstances under which Mr Waiswa remains in detention during such a critical time for his family.
The death comes amid ongoing debate about the treatment of opposition members and access to bail, particularly in cases where detainees cite humanitarian grounds.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in due course.
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