Having survived with injuries of an attack from robbers, Muramuza Stuart thought he would leave longer to tell the tale. Fate had other plans. It can’t have occurred to Stuart that what had started as a normal day would deal a tragic ending to his short but eventful life. For the former student leader at Makerere and a student of Industrial Art; a Ntare School old boy and former resident of Nsibirwa hall, it was a conspiracy between fate and death that ended the life of this promising youngster, only two weeks shy of his January 19th graduation day.
The late served as Guild Representative Councillor for Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine Art, and was a reputed photographer and graphic designer within the university circles.
How did he die?
There are conflicting accounts of his death, with some saying he was found lifeless after having been clobbered to death by robbers while others say he died in the morning following the attack, having taken pain killers in the night to numb his pain, unbeknownst to him that death was minutes away. Regardless of whichever account is true or not, one thing is for sure: Stuart is gone forever.
A calm patriot
Those who knew him speak so fondly and emotionally of him. Seen by many as a calm patriot, Stuart is said to have taken centre stage in fighting for his fellow students’ rights. “We were soldiers…..we fought a good war but now our list has reduced by one Soldier. Our befallen comrade….we shall forever cherish your works and u will always be a hero because your played your part in building for the future. You Stood with the rest of the country, the students and particularly Makerere in fighting the draconian policies of 60%, 10% tuition increment among others. Andrew Stuart, a soft spoken artist who would always keep his sharp smile day in day out…but ruthless ugly pipo have chosen to robe him of his life.” read Benson Chark’s poignant obituary, the speaker of Uganda National Students’ Association.
Simon Senyonga, who used to stay just two rooms away from Stuart at Nsibirwa hall was equally pained. “It’s so sad. I knew him to be a composed, kind and calm leader. I have him in memory for 3 of his beautiful art pieces that he offered to me as he left campus. I will forever remember this dear friend.” a dejected Simon remarked.
Insecurity at Makerere
Many students have attributed Stuart’s death to insecurity in Makerere and surrounding areas. “It is absurd that we have lost yet another of our own to insecurity in and around Makerere, and even worse that Stuart could have been any of us. Fellow Makerereans, I urge us to ensure Stuart’s life and death were not in vain, by using this opportunity to peacefully demand an improvement in security in and around Makerere University. Let us make Makerere a safe place for all.” said Donald Maasa, a student at the university.
On the deceased’s Facebook wall, posts from heartbroken friends continue to poor in. “Brother i knw u might neva read this but i feel so unsure confused and angry as to why this had to happen this fast with all this success swt life ahead of us. Stuart L Chiaro am finding my self crying and i cant help it fr u hav been robbed away frm us just lik tht. Let the angels protect and am sure u are now in the best place. Rest in peace brother.” read one of the posts from Mwesigwa Allan.
It’s very easy to say God gives and takes away, until you are the one it’s being said to. Rest in peace, Stuart. May your assailants leave long enough to regret their deed every minute of their existence.
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