All Saints Cathedral Nakasero was filled to capacity and beyond as hundreds of Christians gathered to pay their last respects to James Garuga Musinguzi, a prominent businessman and politician, who passed away earlier this week.
The service was led by Archbishop Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who praised the late Garuga as a pillar of the Church, noting his immense contributions to church infrastructure, education, and support for underprivileged children.
The Archbishop emphasized that Garuga’s faith was one of action and commitment.
Garuga's passing united people across the political spectrum and regions, with mourners coming from across Kigezi sub-region and beyond. His legacy brought together government officials, opposition leaders, and local communities.
His children spoke emotionally, describing their father as more than just a parent—a father figure to many who had no support, and a passionate advocate for peace in Uganda.
Dr. Francis Lunumi, one of Garuga’s close friends, hailed him as a visionary who brought unprecedented development to the Kigezi region, especially through his agricultural projects.
Former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi described Garuga as an exceptional leader and political figure, who always sought unity rather than conflict.
He also recalled how they once competed for the parliamentary seat of Kinkizi West, but maintained mutual respect and cooperation—even when Garuga later joined the FDC.
Another former Prime Minister, Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, highlighted Garuga’s generosity and patriotic contributions, particularly his massive financial support to various political actors.
Rugunda also noted Garuga’s role in building the Kihihi Airfield, one of the most active regional airstrips outside Kampala.
The service, however, was marked by disappointment among opposition leaders, who decried being denied a chance to speak about their colleague.
Mourners were especially saddened that Dr. Kizza Besigye, a close ally of the deceased, could not attend due to being under detention.
Rev. Andrew Agaba, one of the organizers, expressed deep sorrow over Besigye’s absence and called on the government to release him to mourn his friend.
Garuga's widow, Peace Garuga, emotionally recounted the illness that took her husband’s life. She revealed that the UK denied them visas twice, blocking their attempt to take him to London for better medical care.
Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, who represented the government, acknowledged that Garuga died while the government still owed him money.
He assured the family that efforts would be made to settle these debts.
Leaders from the opposition expressed frustration at being silenced during the service.
Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, Secretary General of the PPF, stated that Garuga was not only a founding elder of their movement but also a major financier, and it was painful that he was not honored properly in Church.
Despite the tension, the mood at All Saints was reflective, prayerful, and filled with gratitude for the life of a man many described as a father, leader, and patriot.