Kampala, Uganda — Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of incarcerated Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, deputy spokesperson of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has died following a prolonged battle with cancer.
Family sources confirmed that Edith passed away shortly after 3:00am on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, after what has been described as a hard-fought struggle with the disease.
The death was publicly announced by NUP Principal Robert Kyagulanyi, who expressed grief in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our dear sister and comrade, Edith Katende Mufumbiro, the wife of our Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro,” Kyagulanyi said.
At the time of her death, Mufumbiro remained in detention at Luzira Upper Prison, where he has been held since September 2025 on charges of unlawful drilling—allegations that the opposition party maintains are politically motivated.
According to NUP officials, Mufumbiro was not present at the alleged scene of the offense and was instead attending to his wife at the Uganda Cancer Institute on the day in question.
Despite repeated bail applications citing his wife’s deteriorating health condition, courts reportedly denied his release multiple times. His continued detention meant he was unable to be with his wife during her final moments. He also contested in Uganda’s January 2026 parliamentary elections while still in custody.
In his statement, Kyagulanyi criticized the handling of the case, describing it as unjust and calling for resilience among supporters.
“As difficult as it is, we remain hopeful that we shall overcome someday. May God grant the family, especially our brother Waiswa, the strength he needs at this time,” he added.
The passing of Edith Katende Mufumbiro has reignited debate over the treatment of opposition figures in Uganda and the broader state of the justice system.
Further details regarding burial arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family.
