Rukungiri Municipality Mayor Boaz Kansiime Matiita has sparked debate after attributing the prolonged detention of former presidential candidate Colonel (Rtd) Dr. Kizza Besigye to what he described as a failure by people in Rukungiri to actively pursue his case.Matiita made the remarks on Monday, August 17, 2026, while speaking to mourners during the funeral Mass of the late Joseline Kyotungire Mpirirwe in Runyinya Kinombe Village, Kagashe Ward, Eastern Division of Rukungiri Municipality.The mayor acknowledged that Besigye has been in detention for more than two years, but argued that greater involvement and follow-up by residents of Rukungiri could have helped push efforts aimed at resolving his situation.
He contrasted Rukungiri’s approach with that of people from Kisoro, whom he said had previously demonstrated determination in following up on issues involving former Inspector General of Police General Kale Kayihura.According to Matiita, Rukungiri has influential people in senior government positions who could potentially help in efforts to address the matter. He specifically mentioned two ministers, the Chief Justice and the Commissioner General of Prisons.Despite the presence of these senior officials, the mayor said residents had not shown sufficient willingness to pursue what he referred to as harmonisation efforts, leaving the issue unresolved.
The remarks came as mourners gathered to celebrate the life of Joseline Kyotungire Mpirirwe, who was remembered by clergy and relatives as a devoted Christian, hardworking mother and compassionate member of her community.Joseline died of breast cancer at the age of 61 at 3 Rivers Hospital on Buganda Road in Kampala. She left behind eight children and nine grandchildren, while her husband, Aloysius Mpirirwe, urged couples to remain committed to their marriages and confront family challenges with positivity rather than resorting to separation.
