Govt apologises for mismanagement of late MP Ssegirinya's affairs
The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balam Barugahara, has apologized on behalf of the government for its mismanagement of affairs surrounding the late Kawempe North MP, Muhammad Ssegirinya.
Speaking during a parliamentary session to honor the fallen legislator, Barugahara admitted the government’s shortcomings and pledged to adopt a more inclusive and accountable approach in the future.
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"As a government, and as someone who supports and believes in everyone’s equality, I apologize for all the mismanagement that could have happened during his life while on earth," Barugahara stated.
"We should do better going forward and be more receptive to criticism where need be,"be added.
Ssegirinya, who passed away at the age of 37, endured a tumultuous political journey marked by health challenges, legal battles, and allegations of neglect while in custody.
His deteriorating health in prison and subsequent denial of bail despite medical recommendations attracted widespread criticism from opposition leaders and civil rights activists.
During the tribute session, Ssegirinya’s legacy as a passionate advocate for grassroots activism and community development was lauded, with calls for Uganda’s political landscape to embrace fairness and compassion.
However, the sitting was marked by the conspicuous absence of government ministers from the front bench, which is traditionally occupied by senior officials.
Instead, three NRM MPs took their places. The motion to pay tribute to Ssegirinya was moved by Bugweri County MP Abdu Katuntu, in the absence of a government representative.
Bugiri County MP Asuman Basalirwa questioned the government’s failure to move the motion, asking, "Why did the government fail to move the motion?"
Speaker Anita Among responded, "All members were informed, and it's not right to speculate about the absence of the ministers."
The front bench was briefly occupied by Third Deputy Prime Minister Lukia Nakadama, but only after the motion had already been moved.
The reasons for the ministers’ absence remain unclear, but their boycott was felt keenly during the emotional tribute to the late MP.
