Uganda, March 9 -- Although Abu Mayanja and several Uganda National Congress and Uganda National Movement activists were arrested or imprisoned by colonial authorities, very few of them had their human rights violated. However, prison conditions deteriorated under African leaders. Obote's security men were reported to have beaten Mayanja in the process of arresting him, even though he and Obote had worked closely before Independence. Mayanja not only brought Obote to the ranks of UNC but also introduced him to Sir Edward Muteesa II.

Writing to WG Peaston, WE Stober of the British High Commission noted: "Rumours have been strengthening over the past few days that Abu Mayanja has died in detention as a result of the beating up he received ...