Luwero leaders recount RDC Bwabye’s impact in special council session

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In the midst of heightened campaign activity, leaders across the political spectrum in Luwero came together on Sunday (November 23) for a special council session honouring Richard Ntulume Bwabye, the resident district commissioner for Luwero, who passed away on November 21, 2025, at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala.

During the session, Luwero district speaker Derrick Lukanga described Bwabye as a dedicated civil servant who devoted much of his time to resolving land disputes, while the deputy chief administrative officer, Henry Musizi, hailed him as hardworking and attentive.

"I am always punctual at work, but Bwabye has been reporting to the office before me and leaving late when all of us have left," Musizi said.

According to the burial arrangements, Bwabye will be laid to rest on Monday (November 24) at his ancestral home. The government, through the Office of the RDC, has pledged to cover burial expenses estimated at sh77 million.

Bwabye’s death has triggered widespread grief across Greater Luwero.

He passed away after complications from a severe stroke that had left him bedridden for more than two months. Family members said he had been recovering from a major operation to remove a tumour that had developed on his spinal cord at the time of his death.

 

Luwero triangle Minister Alice Kaboyo laying a wreath on Bwabye s casket.

Born in Luweero 57 years ago, Bwabye once served as district youth councillor before returning to his home district as RDC during the 2022 reshuffle.

Prior to his appointment in Luwero, he served as deputy RDC in Kalungu, Lwengo, Mukono and Kira Municipality, from where he was transferred to Luwero as full RDC.

During his three years of service, he made a strong mark through his commitment to fighting land grabbers and protecting the rights of the oppressed, a stance that often brought him into confrontation with self-seekers, particularly land grabbers. 

His health began deteriorating in September this year, forcing him to remain out of office until his death.

Associates and residents remember him as a seasoned civil servant endowed with wisdom and a rare talent for conflict resolution.

Hundreds of residents with land-related concerns regularly flocked to his office, especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays, seeking solutions and guidance.

Veteran Luwero politician and senior presidential advisor Abdul Nadduli described Bwabye as the best RDC that post-war Luweero has had. Nadduli said Bwabye had, through his conflict resolution skills, helped reduce the high number of land wrangles in the district.

Since the announcement of his death on Friday night, tributes have poured in from fellow RDCs, district leaders and citizens, highlighting his integrity and humility in a demanding role.

His children, led by his eldest daughter Jackie Nandyose, described him as a determined and loving father who taught them to live with purpose.

Other mourners who paid tribute included Luweero Triangle minister Alice Kaboyo, NRM deputy secretary general Rose Namayanja and Ambassador James Kinobe.