Kiboga Prison boss Akishuri laid to rest amid calls for justice, mental health reforms
Akishuri was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Gakoro village, Kisoro district, in an emotional ceremony attended by family members, senior and junior prison officers, local leaders, church representatives, and hundreds of community members.
Akishuri's funeral service was held at Matinza Church of Uganda in Rwingwe Parish, Nyakabande sub-county, and was presided over by the Rev. Can. Philip Muhire, Sub-Dean of the Diocese of Muhabura. (Credit: Daniel Nsengimana)
KISORO - Principal officer I and third-in-command at Kiboga Prison Bright Akishuri, who was shot dead by his subordinate early this week, has been eulogised as a God-fearing, disciplined, humble and dedicated officer who demonstrated commitment to serving his country from an early age.
Akishuri's father says he grew up with strong moral values and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that later defined his career in the Uganda Prisons Service (UPS).
The father says from childhood, Akishuri exhibited leadership skills, respect for authority, and compassion for others, traits that earned him admiration among colleagues and community members alike.
Akishuri was among three people shot dead allegedly by junior warder Anguyo Moses on February 23, 2026, while on duty at Kiboga Prison. According to UPS spokesperson Frank Baine, Anguyo shot dead Kiboga prison deputy officer-in-charge Catherine Hope, third-in-command Bright Akishuri and Sarah Ayebare, the spouse of the charge.
Although the gun used in the shooting has been recovered, the suspect, Anguyo, remains at large.
His death sent shockwaves through the Uganda Prisons Service and the wider community, raising serious concerns about mental health support, welfare conditions for security personnel, and safety within correctional facilities.
Akishuri, who was born on 15 May 1992, joined the Uganda Prisons Service and served diligently at Kigo Prison and later at Kitalya Prison before being deployed to Kiboga Prison.
Colleagues describe him as firm but fair, approachable to junior officers, and committed to maintaining discipline within the force. Many testified that he was passionate about mentorship and guiding young officers to uphold professionalism and integrity in their duties.
He is survived by three young children, whose future now rests in the hands of family members and well-wishers. Speakers at his funeral repeatedly called upon the government and UPS to ensure that the family of the fallen officer receives adequate support.
Akishuri was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Gakoro village, Kisoro district, in an emotional ceremony attended by family members, senior and junior prison officers, local leaders, church representatives, and hundreds of community members.
In honour of his service and sacrifice, he was accorded a three-gun salute.
The funeral service was held at Matinza Church of Uganda in Rwingwe Parish, Nyakabande sub-county, and was presided over by the Rev. Can. Philip Muhire, Sub-Dean of the Diocese of Muhabura.
Muhire urged the Judiciary to ensure that justice is served in the matter.
He also expressed deep concern over what he described as increasing moral decline and emotional distress among security personnel.
He noted that the recent shooting at Kiboga Prison highlights the urgent need for stronger guidance, counselling and spiritual support within security institutions.
He cautioned that some convicted criminals are sometimes released back into communities despite the seriousness of their crimes, arguing that such actions may endanger society.
He urged judicial officers to carefully weigh the consequences of their decisions to ensure public safety.
The cleric also challenged security officers to remain connected to spiritual guidance, warning that distancing themselves from faith and moral teaching may negatively affect their judgment and personal wellbeing.
He encouraged officers to seek counselling, maintain healthy relationships, and rely on faith during times of stress and hardship.
Kisoro municipality mayor Ndyana Richard urged the Uganda Prisons Service and other security agencies to strengthen internal guidance and counselling departments.
Commissioner of Prisons Apollo Akankunda acknowledged the challenges faced by officers, saying guidance and counselling personnel are already recruited within the Prisons Service.
However, he admitted that despite existing support systems, some individuals may still experience personal mental health difficulties that are not easily detected.