Gov’t denies blocking return of Dr. Kiyingi’s body

Contrary to these claims which have started emerging in the media, Information and ICT Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi, said the family of the fallen political dissident was free to return the body for a decent burial.

“We haven't discussed (the funeral) itself yet, but I don't see any reason why the government would stop the return of the body,” Baryomunsi said last evening.

“He is Ugandan and if he passed away outside the country there is no issue with his remains being returned home for a decent burial. Even if he was fighting the government, the family still has the right to receive his body and lay him to rest.”

Dr Kiyingi who fell out with the Ugandan government and fled to Australia, passed away “peacefully” according to his wife Mayimuuna Nakayiira Kiyingi.

The renowned heart surgeon was one of the key figures who funded the NRA bush war before he disagreed with President Museveni.

Back home in Uganda, he faced charges including funding terrorism.

He was among others implicated in the LRA terrorist group operations as well as the murder of prominent people such as Andrew Felix Kaweesi and Muhammad Kiggundu.

In 2005, Dr Kiyingi was arrested and sent to Luzira for the alleged murder of his wife and lawyer Robinah Kiyingi.

Speaking from his home in Busukuma in Wakiso, Kiyingi’s brother Samuel Ssebowa said plans were underway to have the body repatriated Uganda for burial.