The father of former Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oulanyah has died on the fourth anniversary of his son’s death, in a development described as “uncanny” by Justice minister Norbert Mao.
Mzee Nathan Okori passed away today, March 20, 2026, after reportedly battling respiratory complications.
According to Mao, Okori had been rushed to St Mary's Hospital Lacor two days earlier before his condition worsened.
“This is uncanny! On the fourth anniversary of the death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah we have lost his father Mzee Nathan Okori!” Mao said.
“I have just got the sad news from his family that two days ago he was rushed to Lacor with respiratory complications and today he died. Sad!”
Okori became a notable public figure in April 2022 when, during his son’s burial in Omoro District, he openly disputed the official cause of death.
He alleged that Oulanyah had been poisoned, claims that drew national attention but were never conclusively substantiated.
Jacob Oulanyah died on March 20, 2022, at a hospital in Seattle in the United States at the age of 56. His death was announced by Yoweri Museveni, who described him as a “good cadre” and a rising national leader.
“Oulanyah was young but had already made impact,” Museveni said at the state funeral held at Kololo Independence Grounds. “Losing him at this time is a big loss because he was coming up and the country was going to benefit from him.”
Born in 1965 in Omoro District, northern Uganda, Oulanyah trained as a lawyer and rose through the political ranks to become one of the country’s most influential legislators.
He served as Deputy Speaker from 2016 to 2021 before being elected Speaker in May 2021, defeating Rebecca Kadaga in a closely contested race.
His tenure as Speaker was short-lived, lasting less than a year, as his health deteriorated. Government officials, including Jane Ruth Aceng, later indicated that his illness dated back to 2019 and eventually led to multiple organ failure.
Following his death, Parliament elected Anita Among as his successor, ensuring continuity in the legislative arm of government.
Four years on, Oulanyah’s legacy continues to resonate in Uganda’s political landscape, remembered for his legal acumen, sharp wit, and ability to navigate complex parliamentary debates.
The passing of his father on the same date adds a poignant layer to that legacy, rekindling memories of both personal loss and a political career that many believe ended prematurely.
