Women’s Rights Activists Demand Immediate Release of Rose Tumusiime Over Matovu Death Case

Women’s rights activists have called for the immediate and unconditional release of Rose Tumusiime, who remains in police custody following the death of veteran musician Moses Matovu. The activists argue that Tumusiime should not continue to be detained without being formally charged or produced before court.

The demand comes after Vincent Arnold Nsamba, also known as Sitenda, was charged with the murder of 77-year-old Matovu. Nsamba appeared in court yesterday and was remanded to Luzira Upper Prison until November 3 as police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding Matovu’s death.

Matovu died on September 24 following a confrontation in Kibuli. Tumusiime, who was reportedly with the musician shortly before the incident, was also taken to the court premises but was later driven away by security personnel without being charged. Reports indicate that investigators had not yet completed her case file.

The activists maintain that information gathered so far points to a person already in police custody as being responsible for the fatal act. They therefore question why Tumusiime remains detained in connection with the brawl, particularly after she had reportedly spent more than 48 hours in police custody without being brought before a competent court.

They have consequently urged police to either release Tumusiime immediately or present her before court without further delay. The rights campaigners are also calling for any charges connected to the brawl against her to be dropped, saying investigators should concentrate on establishing the circumstances that led to Matovu’s death.

Police have not yet publicly responded to the activists’ demands or provided a detailed explanation of why Tumusiime remains in custody. The circumstances surrounding her detention and whether she will be charged are expected to become clearer as investigations into Matovu’s death continue.