President Museveni’s decision to halt a Cabinet meeting, showcasing the gravity of Sarah Mateke’s loss and the deep respect she commanded within the government.
Museveni interrupted yesterday’s Cabinet session to allow ministers to pay tribute to the late State Minister for Defense, Sarah Mateke. Mateke’s sudden passing on the morning of Saturday, September 7, 2024, has sent shockwaves through the nation, prompting an outpouring of grief from Uganda’s top leadership.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, speaking on behalf of the President, conveyed the deep sorrow felt within the government. “It was a dark day, early morning of Saturday 7th September 2024, on learning that Sarah Mateke had passed on.
Allow me to bring greetings from the President. We were with him in Cabinet, and he had to adjourn to allow us to be with him here, and he has confirmed to be with us tomorrow at 5:00 PM as we mourn our sister,” Nabbanja stated, emphasizing the gravity of the loss.
The Prime Minister’s remarks underscored the exceptional respect Mateke garnered from her colleagues, a respect that moved the President to take the unusual step of halting official business. Nabbanja described Mateke as a remarkable leader whose work extended beyond her governmental duties, particularly highlighting her advocacy for children’s welfare and her deep connections with her community in Kisoro.
“This untimely demise has left a significant void in government, her community in Kisoro, and in the hearts of many who knew and worked closely with her. She was indeed a devoted servant of God. Mateke wasn’t only a remarkable leader but also a passionate advocate for the welfare of children,” Nabbanja noted, reflecting on the personal and professional impact of Mateke’s work.
Mateke’s loss has prompted the government to organize a special sitting in Parliament tomorrow, where President Museveni will personally pay his last respects. This ceremony is expected to draw significant attention as the nation collectively mourns the passing of a key figure in Uganda’s political sphere.
The decision to pause a Cabinet session to honor Mateke underscores her influence and the deep respect she commanded within the government. It serves as a poignant reminder of her contributions to Uganda and the indelible mark she left on the lives of those she served.
