Prisoner Denied Chance to See Dying Wife or Attend Her Funeral: A Call for Compassionate Reform

Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, a prominent National Unity Platform (NUP) opposition member, has faced profound tragedy while in custody. His wife, Edith, died of cancer after months of battling the illness. Mufumbiro had earlier requested bail to spend time with her during her final days, but the judicial officer refused.

Now, following her death, Mufumbiro has appealed to the Chief Justice for temporary release to attend her burial, fulfilling what he calls her final wish. This case highlights a glaring gap in Uganda’s justice system.

The opinion piece argues that imprisonment strips liberty but not humanity. Denying a prisoner—especially one on remand—the chance to bid farewell to a dying spouse is cruel and unjust. Courts wield discretion to grant such requests under strict security measures, like escorted visits or even in restraints.

In contrast, countries like the UK and US permit ‘Release on Temporary Licence’ or ‘compassionate furlough’ for convicted inmates to visit dying relatives or funerals, following due process. Uganda has no law prohibiting this, implying it’s allowable.

The author urges reflection from the Judiciary and Prisons Service, calling courts ‘temples of justice’ that must balance law with human dignity. A clear policy is needed to guarantee prisoners’ rights to supervised visits for dying close relatives or funerals.

Such reforms affirm humanity without compromising security, restoring moral balance to the system.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)