The family of the late Major General Francis Takirwa has revealed that they were denied access to their father for nearly a month while he was hospitalized at the UPDF National Referral Hospital in Mbuya, shortly before his death.
The army, however, has assured the family of survival benefits for the widow and five children.
At a send-off ceremony in Kashari Sayuni Rugarama, Bwizibwera-Rutooma Town Council, Mbarara district, firstborn son Benjamin Mugumya Takirwa said the family first visited their father on December 12 while he was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), but subsequent visits were blocked, and they were reportedly told to return after elections.
"Dad fell sick, we went to see him day one on December 12, he was in Intensive Care Unit with tubes and machines. When we returned other days, we failed," Mugumya said.
“We tried to ask the doctors, they wouldn’t tell us. New Year came, nothing. We were even chased away once,” Mugumya said.
He added that he had to take a break in Nairobi to avoid confrontations with the forces.
Delivering condolences on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, through his deputy Lt Gen Sam Okiding, praised Gen Takirwa for his dedicated service and leadership.
“The late Maj Gen Francis Takirwa is survived by a widow and five children. The family is entitled to survival benefits, and the process will be explained after the burial ceremony,” Muhoozi said.
The burial, held on Thursday afternoon, was attended by senior UPDF officers including Lt. Gen. Muhanga Kayanja, Lt Gen James Mugira, Lt Gen Joseph Musanyufu, and the Director of Counter Terrorism Police.
Maj Gen Takirwa was laid to rest at around 4:30pm, accompanied by an eight-gun salute.