Police in Mukono are investigating a disturbing case involving a 40-year-old man who died after weeks of prayer-based treatment and was later kept inside a house for several days as relatives and a pastor attempted to pray him back to life.
The deceased, Asse Ssegawa, lived in Butinindi in Terere Parish, Ntenjeru–Kisoga Town Council. According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the man fell ill roughly three weeks earlier, but his family instead turned to continuous prayer sessions led by a local pastor, Margret Nelima, popularly known as Nabbi. Police say the pastor instructed the family not to take him to any medical facility, insisting that prayer alone would heal him.
As Ssegawa’s condition deteriorated, the group reportedly intensified their prayers rather than seeking medical assistance. He eventually died, but instead of informing authorities or arranging a burial, the family and the pastor kept his body in the house for several days, continuing to pray for his resurrection.
The situation came to light when neighbours noticed a strong odour coming from the home. On checking, they found the body already decomposing and alerted the local authorities. Police responded and opened a case of rash and neglect at Kisoga Police Station.
Three people are currently in custody as part of the investigation. These include Ssegawa’s mother, Eseza Nakalazi, who is described as a pastor; his sister, Suzan Nakonde, who is also known locally as a pastor; and the local preacher, Margret Nelima, who is accused of directing the family to avoid medical care. A postmortem examination will determine the actual cause of death.
In a statement, the Uganda Police Force condemned the misuse of religious and cultural practices in ways that put lives at risk. The public has been urged to seek immediate medical treatment whenever someone falls ill, with officials warning that withholding care or keeping a deceased person inside a home for prolonged periods is both dangerous and criminal.
Police further cautioned that any individuals or groups promoting harmful practices under the guise of spirituality will be held accountable under the law. ASP Owoyesigyire said more updates will be provided as investigations continue.