The fourth bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt Rev Samuel Balagadde, has died.
Namirembe Diocese confirmed the bishop emeritus' death on Monday evening.
"With deep sorrow, we announce the tragic news of the sudden passing of Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Samuel Balagadde Ssekadde, the fourth bishop of our diocese. May his soul rest in peace," the diocese stated.
Balagadde served as the Anglican Bishop of Namirembe from 1994 until 2009. While the cause of his death has not yet been disclosed, it is reported that he passed away at Kisubi Hospital after an illness.
Just a day prior to his death, Balagadde attended the funeral of the late Mrs. Norah Karakire in Rushere-Nyabushozi, where according to one of the mourners, the bishop emeritus expressed a desire to speak before heading back to Entebbe.
"Tomanyi nze addako”, “gwe oddako”.(You and I could follow the deceased). The man of God prayed and left. He was so sound, strong, and looked healthy. This Life is indeed nothing. Vanity, vanity, vanity. May His soul rest in peace.” one mourner was quoted as saying.
In the wake of his passing, many senior citizens and clergy members have taken to social media to pay tribute to the bishop emeritus.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, praised him for leaving behind a strong legacy rooted in promoting God's message.
"I am saddened to learn of the death of Retired Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Balagadde Ssekade. He has left behind a strong legacy anchored on shepherding God’s sheep for over 50 years. My condolences go out to the family, Archbishop Church of Uganda and fellow believers. May the Bishop’s soul rest in eternal peace," Tayebwa said on X (formerly Twitter) platform.
The Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi posted, "The passing of the Rt. Rev. Samuel Balagadde Ssekadde, former Bishop of Namirembe Diocese is very saddening. We thank God for his service to God and the church over the years. Kitalo nyo dala."