A somber vigil was on Monday evening held at the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters in Makerere Kavule to honour the late Marinos Alexandros, whose ordeal at the hands of security operatives eventually led to her untimely death.
Marinos, who was abducted and tortured by soldiers at the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) in Mbuya in 2022 for allegedly playing Bobi Wine’s music on loudspeakers, succumbed to illness on Sunday at 1:30am.
The vigil, attended by NUP leaders, supporters, and human rights activists, featured prayers, hymns, and tributes highlighting Marinos’ courage in speaking out against torture and impunity.
NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, condemned the circumstances surrounding her death and held the government responsible.
“Museveni claims to be the father of a pastor, a religious leader, and this is what describes his regime—abductions, torture, rape, and murder of innocent citizens.
Marinos’ story is not an isolated case, but part of a pattern of brutality that has persisted under this dictatorship,” Kyagulanyi said.
He further noted that Marinos’ persecution reflected the dangers opposition supporters face daily.
“When she exposed the thugs who tortured her, she began receiving threats to her life. Even after seeking refuge in Nairobi, regime operatives pursued her. This is the extent of the regime’s fear of truth and justice,” he said.
Marinos’ ordeal left her battling severe health complications, including HIV/AIDS, which she contracted as a result of sexual violence during her detention.
After a difficult exile in Kenya, she returned home recently to seek treatment and reunite with her family but eventually passed away.
Party leaders at the vigil called for justice not only for Marinos but also for all victims of state violence.
Marinos Alexandros will be laid to rest on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Rwimi Town Council in Bunyangabu District.
