Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Isaac Ssemakadde has called for an independent investigation into the death of journalist and public servant Anthony Kushaba, whose sudden death in Ntungamo has raised questions over the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Ssemakadde said he was deeply saddened by Kushaba’s death, describing him as a dedicated public servant and former journalist who died “too soon” under unclear circumstances.
His call comes after lawyer Eron Kiiza, Kushaba’s brother, announced the death and said the family had yet to establish what caused his brother’s sudden death.
According to Kiiza, Kushaba was found dead at his residence in Ntungamo shortly after returning from the burial of their paternal aunt in Kajara, Ntungamo.
The lawyer said his late brother had worked as a journalist at Radio Kigezi and BFM, among other stations, before joining Ntungamo District Local Government as a Communications Officer.
In a statement reacting to the development, Ssemakadde said Kushaba’s family, including Kiiza, deserved answers regarding his death.
“I call for a swift, independent, and transparent investigation,” Ssemakadde said, adding that the Uganda Law Society stood with the bereaved family.
“We will not look away,” he said.
The ULS president’s remarks place the circumstances surrounding Kushaba’s death under renewed public scrutiny, particularly as no cause of death had been disclosed in Kiiza’s initial account.
Kushaba is survived by his wife and children. Although his family had a home in Kabale town, he is expected to be buried on Sunday at Rwahi in Rwentobo–Rwahi Town Council.
Kiiza had described his brother as a close friend and confidant, as well as a committed family man who played a significant role in caring for their ageing parents.
He said Kushaba frequently travelled between Kabale, Ntungamo and neighbouring areas while checking on his parents.
Ssemakadde’s statement comes as the family prepares to lay Kushaba to rest, with attention now focused on establishing what happened before his death.
The ULS president said the organisation would stand with the family as they seek clarity, stressing the need for an investigation that is independent, transparent and conducted without delay.
For the family, the immediate priority remains mourning a brother, husband, father and former journalist whose life ended unexpectedly, while questions about his death remain unanswered.