Hundreds of mourners gathered in Karamoja today to bid farewell to Grace Pulkol Adams, daughter of former intelligence chief David Pulkol.
Vice-President Jessica Alupo attended the funeral and urged continued unity among the Ateker cluster.
President Museveni, in a message delivered by Vice President Alupo, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, praising Grace for her dedication to humanitarian work.
"She was a lady of compassion and service, and her contributions to the community will not be forgotten," the President’s message read.
He noted the tragedy of her passing in her prime, saying she still had much to contribute.
David Pulkol, her father, said Grace had planned to return home in March. He recalled her words to him: "If there ever comes a day, Daddy, when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay."
Her sister, Esther, shared Grace’s hopeful message: "My sister Esther, I know that in March we shall all be together, and if all goes well, we shall be together even with Daddy."
Pulkol said the family prefers to celebrate her life rather than mourn, as she had accomplished so much.
Dignitaries from Uganda and neighboring Kenya, including the Turkana County Governor, attended the burial, highlighting the regional ties Grace nurtured.
Grace, who had been residing in Texas, led a multifaceted professional life. She was a medical nurse, worked as an Uber driver, and actively supported Helping Hands, a charity assisting those in need.
Stella Atyang, Woman MP for Moroto District, remembered her as a woman of hope and deep faith. Albert Lokoru, MP for Tepeth County, urged the family to take heart, saying, "This is the way God takes everyone."
Peter Abrahams Lokii, MP for Jie County, encouraged mourners to celebrate her life and achievements, while John Baptist Lokii, MP for Matheniko County, described her as a family friend whose passing had left a significant gap.
Remigio Achia, Chairperson of the Karamoja Parliamentary Group and MP for Pian County, said Grace’s life was a wake-up call for people to strive to be remembered for good deeds.
"As leaders, we grieve with the family for their loss but also celebrate the impactful life Grace lived," he said.
Peter Lokeris, Minister for Karamoja Affairs, reminisced about his close friendship with David Pulkol’s father and described the Pulkol family as exceptionally brilliant.
"Death comes when least expected, and it has taken a brilliant girl," he said.
VP Alupo expressed deep sadness over the loss but thanked David Pulkol for his continued efforts to unite the Ateker group.
As the funeral drew to a close, mourners reflected on Grace’s legacy, ensuring her memory would endure.