Nsibambi’s retirement from politics should inspire some 'people' - MPs

Members of Parliament, one after another praised former Premier Apolo Nsibambi’s decision to quit active politics when the time came, insisting that some government officials should take this as an example.

Legislators gathered yesterday at Parliament to pay their last respects to Nsibambi who passed on Wednesday, while at his home in Rubaga.

Until his death, one thing stood out for Nsibambi, the habit of absolute punctuality. Indeed, even his body was delivered at the exact time (10:00am) at parliament as had been programmed.

A delegation composed of Speaker Rebecca Kadaga, the Clerk to Parliament Ms Jane Kibirige and the second deputy premier, Al Haj Kirunda Kivejinja, received Nsibambi’s body.

The body was then wheeled into the Parliament foyer for public viewing before being taken into the chambers at 2:00pm for eulogising.

Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda moved a motion to appreciate Nsibambi for his contribution to the nation. The motion was seconded by Rukungiri Woman MP, Betty Muzanira on behalf of the opposition and Kabale Municipality MP Aja Andrew Baryayanga on behalf of the independents.

They all eulogised Nsibambi as a patriotic, peace loving and developmental man the country can never replace.

“We are here to pay tribute to a great man who impacted the lives of so many people in our country and beyond. As a political academic and researcher, as a family man, a diligent and patriotic leader,” Rugunda said.

Eulogising Nsibambi, Kyadondo East legislator Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine, commended the deceased for being different from those he served with in government.

“Even though he served among colleagues who are power hungry, Nsibambi was not power hungry. He believed that leaders must serve and then retire respectfully,” Nsibambi said.

Bugiri Municipality legislator, Asuman Basalirwa said Nsibambi’s retirement is clear testimony that one can live a dignified life after retirement.

“Those who fear to retire for one reason or the other, should actually pick a leaf from Nsibambi,” Asuman said.

“The fact that Apolo Nsibambi was prime minister, he had power and authority and it never drove him into pomp, ostentation and pageantry the way we see it here,” he added.

Mr Mohammad Muwanga Kivumbi(DP, Butamba County)described the deceased as a mentor.

“An accomplished politician and academic, Prof Nsibambi inspired many of us to pursue education; he also motivated us to speak up in agitation for a federal government although it has never been achieved,” said Kivumbi.

Ms Lumumba described Prof Nsibambi as a straight minded person.

“His soul coordinated with his body to give advice; his entire body communicated one message, and he would respect everybody whether educated or not,” she said.

 

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