NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya has mourned lawyer and human rights advocate Baguma Richard Rwatooro, describing his death as a major loss to Uganda’s justice and good governance community.
In a condolence message, Rubongoya expressed sadness over what he described as the sudden passing of a “comrade, friend and former student”, remembering Baguma as a passionate advocate for justice and public accountability.
Rubongoya said Baguma devoted his professional life to advancing constitutionalism and defending the rule of law, particularly through his work in court.
“Very saddened by the sudden passing of a comrade, friend and former student, Baguma Richard Rwatooro,” Rubongoya said.
“Baguma was an impassioned advocate for justice and public accountability. He pursued constitutionalism and the rule of law with absolute dedication and unyielding might.”
The NUP official noted that Baguma was frequently present in courtrooms pursuing cases touching on human rights, freedom and liberty.
He portrayed the late lawyer as someone who remained committed to legal advocacy at a time when questions surrounding constitutional rights, political freedoms and accountability continue to dominate public debate in Uganda.
“You would often find him in corridors of various courts pursuing different matters relating to human rights, freedom and liberty,” Rubongoya said.
According to Rubongoya, Baguma’s death has created a significant void among people committed to good governance and the protection of citizens’ rights.
“His sudden passing leaves a huge void amongst those who believe in good governance,” he added.
Baguma was also known for his involvement in human rights-related legal work and had been associated with the defence of opposition figures, including Forum for Democratic Change leader Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale.
His legal work brought him into some of Uganda’s closely watched cases involving political freedoms, constitutionalism and the powers of state institutions.
Tributes have since emerged from colleagues, political figures and human rights advocates who knew Baguma through his legal and civic engagements.
His death comes at a time when lawyers and rights defenders remain central to debates over the rule of law and political freedoms in Uganda.
Rubongoya concluded his message by paying tribute to Baguma’s contribution and extending his final farewell.
“May his soul rest in peace,” he said.