The Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda (AOGU) has issued a formal statement expressing condolences and calling for calm following the death of former Kalangala District Woman MP Helen Nakimuli, as public concern continues to grow over the circumstances surrounding her passing.
Nakimuli, 40, died on Sunday, April 19, 2026, shortly after undergoing a surgical procedure to treat uterine fibroids, a common non-cancerous condition affecting the uterus. Her sudden death has sparked widespread debate and scrutiny, with many questioning how a routine procedure could lead to such an outcome.
In a statement dated April 22, 2026, and signed by its President, Rogers Kajabwangu, the association extended “sincere condolences to the family, loved ones, and constituents” of the late legislator, as well as to all Ugandans mourning her death.
“As a professional body committed to advancing quality reproductive health care through excellence in practice, collaboration, and accountability, we share in the concern that such a loss brings to the public,” the statement read.
The association acknowledged that a clinical review is currently underway at the health facility where Nakimuli received care, emphasizing that such reviews are standard practice aimed at improving care and maintaining high professional standards.
“We understand that a clinical review is ongoing at the health facility where the Honorable Member of Parliament received care. This is part of standard practice aimed at learning, improving care, and ensuring that high professional standards are maintained,” the statement read.
The remarks come amid heightened public attention and calls for accountability following the legislator’s death, which has drawn reactions from political leaders, medical professionals, and the general public.
AOGU urged the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course, stressing its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness in healthcare delivery.
“At this time, we appeal to the public to remain calm and allow the necessary processes to take their course. As obstetricians and gynecologists, we remain guided by our core values of professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness in the care we provide to all Ugandans,” the statement read.
The association also highlighted the emotional and psychological toll such incidents can have on healthcare workers involved, pledging support for its members and other professionals affected during this period.
“We recognize the emotional and psychological toll that such unanticipated events can have on our members and other health workers involved in the care, and we will offer appropriate support to all those involved during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its broader mandate, the association said it remains committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen trust in Uganda’s health system and to improve the quality and safety of care for women and families across the country.
The statement concluded with a message of sympathy and respect for the deceased: “May the soul of the departed rest in peace.”
Born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kyamuswa sub-county in Kalangala District, Nakimuli was a prominent politician, legislator, and athlete.
She was the daughter of Christopher Walusimbi, a Greek Orthodox priest, and Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, a former Kalangala District councillor.
She began her education at Bukasa Primary School before joining Hormisdallen Primary School in Bweyogerere. Nakimuli later attended Our Lady of Good Counsel in Gayaza for her Ordinary Level and St. Augustine Secondary School in Wakiso for her Advanced Level, where she served as head girl. She went on to pursue higher education at Makerere University.
Nakimuli was a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and served in the 11th Parliament of Uganda as the Woman Representative for Kalangala District, having defeated Aidah Nabayiga in the 2021 elections. She also held the position of Head of Communication and Anti-Corruption within her party.
Beyond politics, Nakimuli was widely recognized for her contributions to sports, particularly volleyball. She had been a player since 1998 and captained the women’s volleyball team during the East Africa Parliamentary Games in Arusha, Tanzania. She was also affiliated with COBAP Volleyball Club.
In her community work, Nakimuli supported widows in securing legal assistance in property disputes, donated relief items such as food and soap to the elderly, and extended aid to families affected by house fires. She also advocated for the inclusion of island districts like Buvuma and Namayingo in government funding programs such as Emyooga.
Nakimuli was further honored with an ecclesiastical medal by His Divine Beatitude Theodore II of Alexandria in recognition of her service to the Orthodox Church, Uganda, and humanity.
Burial is scheduled to take place tomorrow Thursday, April 22, in Luweero following a mass at St. Nicholas Cathedral, Namungoona.
Investigations into the exact cause of death remain ongoing, with a comprehensive report expected upon completion of further medical and procedural assessments.
