news 23 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)

Journalist Anthony Kushaba's Death Under Scrutiny for Possible Poisoning

A postmortem examination on journalist Anthony Kushaba has raised suspicions of poisoning, prompting investigators to request further tests on collected samples. While initial findings also suggest a possible heart attack, the presence of bleeding from the nose and eyes has led to this line of inquiry. Source: https://observer.ug/news/poison-cited-in-journalist-kushabas-death

Investigations into the death of Ntungamo District communication officer and journalist Anthony Kushaba are leaning towards the possibility of poisoning. A recent postmortem conducted by Dr. Dorcus Buregyeya revealed anomalies that warrant further forensic analysis.

While the examination noted signs consistent with a heart attack, including a lack of blood in a part of the heart, the discovery of bleeding from Kushaba’s nose and eyes has prompted the medical team to consider poisoning as a potential cause. Samples collected during the postmortem have been sent to a laboratory for comprehensive testing to clarify the exact circumstances of his demise.

Kushaba, 38, was found deceased in his home on a Friday, having attended a family burial the previous day. He later had dinner with colleagues before returning home. His death has cast a shadow over Ntungamo District, where he served diligently for eight years.

During a special council sitting to honor his memory, colleagues and officials lauded Kushaba’s dedication. District Speaker Bernard Ahabwe Mupenda described him as a committed public servant, while Bibiana Kakinoni highlighted his cooperative nature. Fidelis Kiiza, the Chief Administrative Officer, credited Kushaba with revitalizing the district’s dormant communication office and his role in combating corruption and streamlining administrative processes, including pension disbursements and the Parish Development Model.

His father, Albany Mbabazi, spoke of his son’s hardworking and purposeful nature. From the journalism fraternity, Anthony Kushaba was remembered as a passionate mentor. His widow, Emily Kushaba, recalled him as a humble, loving husband and a supportive figure to their family. Kushaba, who is also the brother of exiled human rights lawyer Eron Kiiza, is survived by his wife and three sons. He was laid to rest on Sunday at his ancestral home.

Further tests on collected samples are expected to shed light on the cause of Anthony Kushaba’s death. https://observer.ug/news/poison-cited-in-journalist-kushabas-death