Renowned cartoonist and human rights defender, Prof. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, has spoken out to put an end to growing rumours surrounding the sudden death of his brother, Dr. John Spire Kiggundu. Dr. Kiggundu, a respected consultant gynecologist and President of the Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons of Uganda (ALSU), passed away on Sunday after going missing for several hours.
Social media had been awash with speculation that Dr. Kiggundu’s death may have been linked to his brother’s outspoken activism. Some even claimed that he had been kidnapped or murdered. However, Prof. Spire strongly dismissed these rumours, saying his brother died of a heart attack, according to a credible post-mortem report.
“Though it may not be the right time amidst grieving, I want to stop the harmful disinformation. John was not shot, not kidnapped, and not killed for political or other reasons. He died of natural causes and was found a day later,” Prof. Spire shared on his social media platforms.
He also clarified that Dr. Kiggundu had no business relationship with Buganda Kingdom’s Premier, Owek. Peter Mayiga, contrary to some claims online. The hospital he founded—Henrob Hospital in Zzana—was built from humble beginnings, named after his two sons, Henry and Robert.
Dr. Kiggundu’s death is a big loss not only to his family but to the entire health sector in Uganda. He was a champion of minimally invasive surgery, especially for women, and helped introduce laparoscopic procedures in both urban and rural hospitals. His work brought safer and quicker treatment options to women who previously had few choices.
He also worked closely with health centers like Kyabirwa Surgical Centre in Jinja, where over 1,500 laparoscopic surgeries were performed under his guidance. His contributions went beyond surgery—he also raised awareness about fertility challenges and endometriosis, proving his commitment to women’s health in all forms.
Prof. Spire Ssentongo also shared a personal message about their deep bond, saying Dr. Kiggundu was not just a brother but a father figure to him. He remembered how Dr. Kiggundu would often speak about his fear of death, a fear that now brings emotional weight to his passing.
Agather Atuhaire, a journalist and close friend of Prof. Spire, also paid tribute to Dr. Kiggundu, describing him as a loving family man who served Uganda with passion and integrity.
According to the family’s program, a night vigil will be held at his home in Zzana on Monday. On Tuesday morning, the body will be taken to their ancestral home in Butozi, Masaka, for burial. A mass will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by burial at 4:00 PM.
As Uganda mourns a man who transformed healthcare for many women, the family urges the public to respect the truth and allow Dr. Kiggundu to rest in peace.
