Police boss Mutabazi' widow recounts final moments as family, friends bid farewell

KABALE - Tears of grief and disbelief filled the air at St James Kijuguta Church of Uganda in Kabale municipality as hundreds of mourners gathered to celebrate the life of former officer in charge of security at the Judiciary, Superintendent of Police (SP) Ronald Mutabazi, who suddenly passed away at his home on November 6, 2025.

Family, friends, security officers, members of the Judiciary and political leaders came together in an atmosphere of deep sorrow and gratitude to honour a man who had spent more than three decades serving his country with dedication, humility, and unwavering professionalism.

Wife’s heartfelt recount of the fateful day

Before the tributes poured in on November 9, 2025, afternoon, Mutabazi’s widow, Justine, stood courageously before the congregation to share his final moments.

Her voice trembled as she recounted the sequence of events that unfolded in their home that morning, a moment that shattered her world and left a lasting void in the family.

“He had been battling high blood pressure for a long time. He was on medication and always followed the doctor’s advice. The night before his death, he told me he felt weak, and I could see he was not his usual self,” she said softly.

She explained that on the morning of November 6, her husband’s condition worsened.

“He started coughing and said he wanted to step into the washroom so that he would not disturb anyone. When I followed him, I found him coughing violently and spitting blood. I panicked and tried to help him, but as I held him, he collapsed in my arms and passed away,” she narrated.

The congregation fell silent as she spoke, with tears welling up in many eyes.

The widow used her moment at the podium to appeal for calm and respect, urging the public to ignore circulating speculations about her husband’s death.

“Please, I beg everyone to stop spreading false rumours. My husband died of high blood pressure, not anything else. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a man who served his country faithfully. Let us honour his memory with respect and truth,” she added.

However, New Vision Online could not independently verify Mutabazi's cause of death or get a copy of his postmortem.

She revealed that they had been married since 1994, describing their marriage as a partnership built on trust and mutual respect.

“We have shared everything, joy, challenges, and sacrifices. He loved his work, but above all, he loved his family. Even in his busiest moments, he always made time for us,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion.

A family’s tribute to their pillar

SP Mutabazi was born on December 2, 1971, and died on November 7, 2025, at the age of 53. He leaves behind a widow and four children, who also paid tribute to their late father during the service.

His daughter, Joyce Arinda, described him as the best father anyone could ask for.

“Dad was the best parent ever. He would respond to every need timely manner, no matter how small. He taught us discipline, kindness, and hard work. Losing him feels like losing the foundation of our lives,” she said.

His sister, Prim Atuheire, also spoke through tears, calling her brother a selfless man who cared deeply for both his family and his colleagues.

“He was our strength. He always believed in doing what was right and helping others, even when it was not convenient for him,” she said.

SP Mutabazi’s widow, Justine Mutabazi (Centre), recounts the last moments with the late Mutabazi during Sunday's funeral service. (Credit: Job Namanya)

A distinguished career of service

Representing the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police David Manzi delivered a touching message on behalf of the Police Force, describing Mutabazi as one of the institution’s most exemplary officers.

“Mutabazi joined the Uganda Police Force in 1990 and has spent more of his life as an officer than as a civilian,” Manzi said. “He rose through the ranks because of his discipline, humility and commitment to duty. He mentored many young officers and left an indelible mark on everyone who worked with him.”

CP Manzi noted that Mutabazi’s death was a great loss not only to the Police Force but also to the Judiciary, where he served as head of security for several years.

“He was a noble officer who brought humility to policing. His legacy is one of professionalism, compassion, and respect for the people he served,” Manzi emphasised.

Judiciary and leaders pay tribute

High Court Judge of Kabale Karoli Lwanga Ssemwogerere spoke passionately about Mutabazi’s integrity and the impact he made within the Judiciary.

“Mutabazi was a man of genuine service. He understood the demands of judicial policing, which requires a high level of commitment and discretion. His loyalty and dedication were beyond question,” he said.

Justice Ssemwogerere added that the manner in which Mutabazi died suddenly and without prolonged suffering was a sign of divine mercy.

“Dying abruptly the way he did shows that he was blessed both in life and in death because the Lord did not want him to die in pain,” he noted.

He also commended the Uganda Police Force for its continued role in maintaining law and order amid public challenges, encouraging officers to emulate Mutabazi’s spirit of service and integrity.

Kabale Municipality Member of Parliament Dr Nicholas Thadeus Kamara remembered the late officer as a bridge-builder between different political and institutional divides.

“Despite my being in the opposition, the late Mutabazi treated us with dignity whenever we appeared in court. He never let politics interfere with professionalism. He was a true public servant who believed in fairness and respect for all,” Kamara said.

Kamara described the deceased as a man who combined firmness with kindness, qualities that made him respected by both colleagues and civilians.

A final salute to a humble officer

After the church service, the body of SP Mutabazi was taken to his ancestral home in Kijuguta, where hundreds of mourners lined the path to pay their final respects.

Police officers performed a three-gun salute, a military tradition symbolising honour, courage, and gratitude for his distinguished service to Uganda.

The echoing shots rang out over the hills of Kabale, leaving mourners in solemn reflection.