Summary:

• Ugandan MP Muhammad Ssegirinya’s death has sparked controversy, with Minister Huda Oleru attributing it to divine timing, dismissing links to his prolonged incarceration. MPs criticized the government for delays in granting bail, which they believe worsened his health, and called for reforms to ensure justice and fairness for political opponents.

The Minister of State for Veteran Affairs, Huda Oleru, has drawn criticism for controversial remarks about the death of MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, asserting that his passing was divinely preordained and unrelated to his prolonged incarceration.

Speaking during a parliamentary session honoring Ssegirinya, Oleru stated, “The faith I subscribe to strongly believes that you only die when it is your day. If you are a believer, you will know it is your time.” She dismissed criticisms linking Ssegirinya’s death to his 17-month detention, urging non-Muslims to avoid commenting on the matter.

Ssegirinya, MP for Kawempe North, passed away on January 9 at Lubaga Hospital, three hours after it was revealed he had suffered brain death. His health had steadily declined following his incarceration on terrorism and murder charges alongside fellow legislator Allan Ssewanyana.

The two MPs were detained in September 2021 over accusations related to machete killings in Greater Masaka. Despite eventually being granted bail, Ssegirinya’s condition worsened, leading to organ failure that required artificial support.

Parliament’s tribute to Ssegirinya quickly turned into a critique of the government’s role in his suffering. MPs accused the state of politicizing justice and delaying bail for opposition figures.

Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi lambasted President Museveni for allegedly pressuring the judiciary. “Maybe Ssegirinya would have lived longer if the judiciary had not been intimidated. Bail is a constitutional right, and no one can take that away,” he said.

Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, Ssegirinya’s lawyer, called for the unconditional withdrawal of charges against other detainees linked to the case. “The only justice we can give Ssegirinya is to drop these baseless charges,” Basalirwa argued.

Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko emphasized the importance of bail, asserting that earlier release could have saved Ssegirinya’s life. “Bail ensures a fair trial. If Ssegirinya had been granted bail sooner, he could have received timely medical care,” Nsereko said.

While Minister Oleru’s remarks stirred controversy, other officials struck a more conciliatory tone. Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara apologized for the government’s handling of Ssegirinya’s case. “Ssegirinya was a fearless advocate for the marginalized and a tireless representative of his people. We must do better,” Balaam said.