The legal fraternity is currently in mourning following the sudden passing of imprisoned veteran politician Dr Kizza Besigye’s lawyer Richard Baguma Rwatooro on Wednesday evening.
Tributes have started pouring in for the human rights activist, who was also part of the legal team that defended Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale, in their ongoing treason case.
Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima said they have lost a great colleague, who was brilliant, thoughtful and brave human rights defender.
“We’ve lost Counsel Richard Baguma Rwatooro, (1st Left) one of the 50 lawyers who have been defending @kizzabesigye1 and Obeid Lutale in court before they were disbanded by the NRM govt” she said.
The leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu aka Bobi Wine, described him as a good friend and fellow law school alumni.
“Very sad to hear that we have lost my good friend and Law School classmate Richard Baguma Rwatooro. Rest in peace brother, until we meet again” he said.
The NUP Secretary General, David Lewis Rubongoya described the deceased as an impassioned advocate for justice and public accountability.
“He pursued constitutionalism and the rule of law with absolute dedication and unyielding might. You would often find him in corridors of various courts pursuing different matters relating to human rights, freedom and liberty. His sudden passing leaves a huge void amongst those who believe in good governance. May his soul rest in peace” Rubongoya eulogised the late.
Exiled lawyer Eron Kiiza, described Rwatooro as a joyous and optimistic person filled with a mega heart and boundless energy.
“One of his friends called me crying to break the news. I had spoken to him only yesterday, through another friend who was hosting him in Fort Portal; he had lost the password to his number. He seemed to be on the road to recovery. We joked and laughed.”
Kiiza further noted that Rwatooro was a tireless campaigner for social justice, a healthy environment and good governance.
“Things of death are painful, random and arbitrary. You cannot make sense of them. I am speechless. Sad. But I am also grateful I knew such a beautiful soul. God bless his soul” he posted.
Lawyer Male Mabirizi, described him as a beloved fighter who advocated for the rule of law during his practice.
“Fellow Citizens, i’ve been informed about the DEATH of our beloved FIGHTER Richard Baguma Rwatooro from Fort Portal [Tooro] who advocated 4 rule of Law, he never missed BESIGYE Court sessions & mine @ Buganda R’d, it’s a sad day!!!” he said.
However, by the time of this publication, the exact cause of his death was yet to be revealed.
