The trial of city socialite and philanthropist Bryan Kirumira, popularly known as Bryan White, took an unexpected turn on Friday after the Makindye Chief Magistrates Court ordered his immediate return to hospital due to his visibly deteriorating health.
Kirumira, the prime suspect in a high-profile case involving allegations of human sacrifice, manslaughter, and several related offences, was brought into the courtroom on a mattress, crying out in pain. Both of his feet were tightly bandaged, and he appeared too weak to sit or stand.
Grade One Magistrate Lorna Patience Kukundane halted the session as soon as the socialite was presented before her. “We are unable to read the charges. Take this man back to hospital,” Magistrate Kukundane directed, prompting prison warders to lift Kirumira and carry him out of the courtroom.
His condition made it impossible for the court to proceed with taking his plea, despite his name appearing on the charge sheet. Instead, charges were formally read to his co-accused.
Before Grade One Magistrate Teddy Nakawuki, Kirumira’s wife Daisy Nalunga, along with Daphine Abaho, Naava Nakato, and Joyce Irene Nambalirwa, faced seven counts. These include:Human sacrifice,Manslaughter,Rash and negligent acts,possession of narcotics,conspiracy to commit a felony,giving false information to police and causing death by negligence (specific to Nambalirwa).
The four were remanded to Luzira Prison until December 18, 2025, pending the next court mention.
According to prosecution, the charges stem from the tragic death of 25-year-old Carol Nalubwama, who sustained severe burns on October 22, 2025, at Kirumira’s residence in Kyamula. Investigators allege the injuries were inflicted during a ritual involving candle wax, petrol, ghee, and honey.
While Kirumira claims the burns resulted from a gas cylinder explosion, her family strongly disputes his account. Her father insists she died after being treated at a shrine, casting further doubt on the socialite’s explanation.
Investigators also reported discovering grass-thatched structures at Kirumira’s home, suspected to be shrines linked to ritual practices.
One of the suspects, Joyce Irene Nambalirwa, a nursing home administrator, is accused of manslaughter for allegedly failing to refer Nalubwama for advanced medical care despite the severity of her injuries.