Uganda’s Parliament has been thrown into mourning following the death of Kalangala District Woman MP, Hellen Nakimuli, with Speaker Anita Among leading tributes to the fallen legislator.
In an emotional message, Speaker Among expressed shock at Nakimuli’s sudden passing, describing her as a valued colleague whose loss has deeply affected the House.
“Honourable colleagues, it is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of our esteemed colleague, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala and Shadow Minister for Information, Hon. Hellen Nakimuli. Words are insufficient to convey the shock we are experiencing at this moment, and we pray that the Lord Almighty sustains her family, friends, and all of us during this challenging time,” Among said.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) confirmed that Nakimuli died following an unsuccessful surgery, though details surrounding the procedure remain unclear.
Party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu described her death as “terrible and shocking,” highlighting the sudden nature of the loss. He extended condolences to her family, friends, and the people of Kalangala, calling for unity during this difficult time.
Nakimuli, 41, had just been re-elected in the January 15 general elections for a second term as Woman MP for Kalangala District. She was widely recognized for her strong advocacy on issues affecting hard-to-reach island communities, particularly in healthcare, education, and empowerment of women and youth.
Efforts to obtain more details about the circumstances of her death have so far been unsuccessful, with family members yet to issue a detailed statement.
Her passing leaves a significant gap in both Parliament and her constituency, where she was regarded as a committed and passionate leader.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course. May her soul rest in peace.
