Late-Blooming Political Activist Mzee Mbuga Dies After Hit-and-Run Accident

Mzee John Chrysostom Mbuga Kiwanuka, a revered elder whose late-life transformation into a passionate political activist endeared him to millions in the country, passed away on Friday, February 7, at the age of 87.

His death, the result of an accident involving a speeding boda boda, has left the Opposition mourning the loss of a dedicated figure who, despite his advanced age, fervently championed the causes of justice and governance reform.

The news of his passing was confirmed by his son, Ashraf Kasirye, a journalist at Ghetto TV.

Kasirye, whose own life was scarred by the brutal violence of Uganda’s recent election cycles, shared the heartbreak of losing his father, a man who had witnessed the nation’s political landscape change over decades.

"My father John Chrysostom Kiwanuka Mbuga got an accident yesterday. A boda boda knocked him. And tonight, he passed away. We all thought he would survive. He is gone," Kasirye said, his grief palpable.

Mzee Mbuga, known affectionately across Uganda, was a strong and passionate voice in the opposition circles, particularly for his unwavering support of political leaders like Kizza Besigye and Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.

His commitment to Uganda’s future, despite his advanced years, earned him deep respect within the country’s political landscape.

His activism was particularly notable during his later years. In November, Kiwanuka made headlines when, at the age of 86, he showed up at the intimidating Court Martial in Makindye to stand surety for Dr Besigye.

Standing alongside hundreds of supporters, he declared his solidarity with Besigye, a "great friend of this country" and a fighter for freedom.

"I've come to stand surety for Besigye, a great friend of this country, and fighter of freedom," Mbuga told an enthusiastic crowd that gathered around him.

"I have known him since he started his political journey."

His presence at the court, advocating for a man he viewed as a hero, cemented Kiwanuka’s reputation as a symbol of political courage.

"My father loved this country and sought to see it thrive," said Kasirye. "He always dreamed of a better Uganda, one where freedom and justice could flourish for all."

In the years leading up to his death, Kiwanuka continued to participate in significant national events. In one particularly poignant moment, he visited Robert Kyagulanyi in Magere after Kyagulanyi was shot in the leg.

The two shared a quiet moment of prayer, holding a small cross and asking for God's protection.

Kiwanuka’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from political leaders and activists alike. Bobi Wine expressed his sorrow on social media, recalling Kiwanuka as a tireless advocate for a better Uganda, despite the hardships that marked his life.

“We have woken up to devastating news of the passing of Mzee John Chrysostom Mbuga Kiwanuka, the father of our brother Ashraf Kasirye. Mzee Mbuga was very committed to the future of Uganda despite his advanced age,” Kyagulanyi wrote.

“Deepest condolences to his family, relatives, and all of us who shared great moments with him. May his soul rest in peace.”

David Lewis Rubongoya, the National Unity Platform’s Secretary-General, also paid tribute, calling Kiwanuka a "good friend" who deeply cared about Uganda's future.

"He always hoped he would see a better country in his lifetime," Rubongoya said. "Mzee was a father figure to many of us. Kitalo nnyo (we are so sorry). May his soul rest in peace."

The heartache felt by his family is shared by many Ugandans who saw in him a symbol of hope and resilience. From his brave public appearances in support of Besigye and Kyagulanyi, to his steadfast belief in the power of political change, Mzee Kiwanuka's legacy will live on.

Sadly, Mzee Mbuga departed the world before seeing Dr Besigye set free despite a Supreme Court order nullifying the trial of civilians before the military court.