Written By | Peter Luzinda
The casket of the late Nakimuli was received in the Central Lobby and later taken into the Chamber, with Members of Parliament rising in respect
Search
PARLIAMENT
Parliament on Wednesday held a special sitting to pay tribute to the late Helen Nakimuli, the former Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament, with leaders across the political divide praising her legacy of service, humility, and advocacy.
Proceedings began with a communication from the Chair, delivered by Speaker Anita Annet Among, who described Nakimuli as a leader whose impact far exceeded her single term in Parliament.
“Everyone aspires to leave such a legacy. Her contribution makes it feel as though she served much longer than one term,” Among said.
Fallen Legislator, Nakimuli
Legacy of service and sports
The Speaker credited Nakimuli for Parliament’s success in regional sports competitions, noting that most of the trophies won at the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games over the past five years were largely due to her efforts.
Nakimuli actively participated in volleyball, basketball, and netball, and served as captain of Parliament’s volleyball team.
“She was not confrontational; she was such a calm lady,” Among said, describing her as a compassionate and evidence-driven leader.
Emotional tributes as casket received
The casket of the late Nakimuli was received in the Central Lobby and later taken into the Chamber, with Members of Parliament rising in respect.
Legislators proceeded to lay wreaths in her honour as the House observed moments of reflection during the solemn sitting.
Financial support and education pledge
Speaker Among announced several contributions towards Nakimuli’s family, including UGX 20 million from the President, UGX 10 million from the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, UGX 10 million from herself, UGX 5 million from Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, and UGX 1 million from Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua.
She also revealed that Parliament would meet all burial expenses, while the cash contributions would be directed to Nakimuli’s child.
In addition, Among announced that she had cleared school fees for the child up to Senior Four through Bukedea Comprehensive School.
Later, the House unanimously adopted a motion moved by Sports Minister Peter Ogwang to deduct UGX 500,000 from each Member of Parliament to further support the child’s education.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) also contributed UGX 10 million towards the family.
Speaker Among announced several contributions towards Nakimuli’s family, including UGX 20 million from the President
Motion to honour Nakimuli
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja moved a motion for Parliament to formally pay tribute to Nakimuli, recognising her distinguished service, advocacy for island communities, and contribution to national development.
Before joining Parliament in 2021, Nakimuli served as Community Development Officer for Kalangala District Local Government from 2013 to 2020.
In Parliament, she served as Shadow Minister for Agriculture (2021–2023) and later as Shadow Minister for ICT and Anti-Corruption until her demise.
A member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Nakimuli was widely recognised for championing the interests of island communities, women’s empowerment, and youth engagement.
Action beyond tribute
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi said Nakimuli’s legacy should inspire tangible action, particularly in strengthening systems to prevent similar tragedies.
“Honouring her should go beyond words. We must ensure no Ugandan loses their life in the way she did,” Ssenyonyi said.
He described her as a firm advocate for transparency, accountability, and responsible governance, noting that she consistently demanded answers from government until her final days.
Ssenyonyi also commended her for amplifying the voices of island communities, often overlooked due to geographical isolation and limited infrastructure. Kampala Central Division MP, Muhammad Nsereko also paid tribute, reflecting on her service and character.
Minister Baryomunsi
Respect in public discourse
ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi urged the public to refrain from trolling or celebrating the deaths of leaders on social media, calling for dignity and respect in national discourse.
Torch Media Africa
