Residents of Gwafu West Village in Mukono Municipality are reeling in shock and grief following the brutal killing of Palema Ruth Tumwebaze, the Head of Student Affairs at Uganda Christian University (UCU), whose body was discovered in her home in the early hours of the morning.
Tumwebaze, 46, was found dead in her bedroom, her body covered with clothes, after unknown assailants reportedly broke into her residence. The tragic incident has sent waves of fear and sorrow throughout the quiet neighbourhood, with residents describing it as the first murder case ever recorded in the area.
According to local authorities, the deceased lived in the house with her two children, aged 13 and 8, and a housemaid. Details emerging from the scene suggest the attack occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
LC1 Chairperson of Gwafu West Village, Ale Wasswa, said he first learned of the incident at around 5:00 a.m. when a police officer called to inquire whether there had been any recent security concerns in the area.
The chairperson recounted that the housemaid reported noticing unusual movements inside the house during the early morning hours. She told him that an intruder had switched on the lights, raising suspicion. When she attempted to check what was happening, she discovered her employer in the bedroom.
According to Wasswa, the suspect allegedly demanded house keys and ordered the housemaid to open something within the house. However, she became alarmed after realising her employer had already been killed. It is believed that the attacker had been hiding in the sitting room, though it remains unclear how he gained access to the home.
Authorities have not yet determined whether the motive was robbery or if the attackers specifically targeted Tumwebaze. The LC1 chairperson speculated that the assailants could have followed her from her workplace, although police have not confirmed this theory.
The killing has deeply affected the Gwafu West community. Residents, speaking in sorrow, described Tumwebaze as a kind-hearted and generous individual who actively supported families in the area. Some said she had personally helped enrol their children in school and offered guidance during difficult times.
Students at Uganda Christian University also expressed profound grief. Several, speaking through tears, praised Tumwebaze for her compassion and dedication to student welfare. They said she consistently supported students and parents, often going beyond her official duties to ensure their well-being.
Local leaders have strongly condemned the murder and called for calm as investigations continue. They urged residents to revive the “ten-household” neighbourhood watch system, a community-based security initiative aimed at improving vigilance and cooperation among neighbours.
Police spokesperson Rachel Kawala confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and to identify those responsible.
Meanwhile, fear has gripped residents of Gwafu West, who are now calling for increased police patrols and enhanced security measures to prevent further incidents.
As the community mourns the loss of a respected leader and mother, many hope that swift justice will be served and that peace will return to their once-tranquil village.
