Uganda’s legal and human rights fraternity is in mourning following the sudden death of Richard Baguma Rwatooro, a Fort Portal-based lawyer who was part of the defence team representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale in their ongoing treason case.
Rwatooro reportedly died on Wednesday evening, sending shockwaves through the legal community and among human rights activists who knew him for his outspoken advocacy for justice and good governance.
He served alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and other prominent lawyers representing Besigye and Lutale. He was also among a wider team of about 50 lawyers that initially took up Besigye’s defence before the government moved to disband the team.
Known for his regular presence in court, Rwatooro was vocal on human rights, social justice, environmental protection and good governance. He repeatedly called for respect for the rights of Besigye and other political prisoners and urged authorities to ensure their freedom.
Tributes have since poured in from across the political and legal landscape. Winnie Byanyima, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, lawyer Male Mabirizi and former presidential candidate Bobi Wine are among those who have mourned his death.
Bobi Wine, who was Rwatooro’s classmate at law school, remembered him for his commitment to justice and public service.
The exact cause of Rwatooro’s death had not been disclosed in the initial reports.
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Besigye’s Lawyers Demand State-Appointed Advocates Withdraw From Treason Case
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