Young political activist and third-year Uganda Christian University (UCU) Law student Angella Maria Namirembe has died.
Namirembe, 27, succumbed to injuries sustained in a boda boda accident in Mengo, Kampala, on Monday evening while returning from school.
Her death was confirmed by UCU and Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze, who described the loss as the “shock death of our daughter.”
Namirembe was a vibrant youth leader and activist, serving as Youth Coordinator for the National Unity Platform (NUP) in Buganda and formerly holding a leadership position in the party’s youth wing.
She was celebrated for her advocacy on youth empowerment, human rights, good governance, and gender equality.
In a statement, the Uganda Young Democrats (UYD) said: “It’s with deepest shock and sadness that we announce the tragic demise of our dear comrade and friend, Namirembe Angella.
The UYD fraternity around the world is hereby informed of this great loss of a distinguished cadre. We shall forever miss you. Rest in peace.”
Eyewitnesses said the accident occurred suddenly on Lubiri Ring Road in Rubaga, highlighting broader road safety challenges where boda bodas contribute to over 30 percent of traffic fatalities in Kampala due to poor infrastructure and enforcement.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and political leaders. Simon Kaggwa Njala, host of NBS TV’s Morning Breeze, wrote: “My Angella… your sudden departure leaves me heartbroken. You embodied all the traits of your father: Catholic, cultured, humble, and a steadfast advocate of change. RIP.”
The Law Students Association of East Africa and the Uganda Law Students Association also mourned her loss, praising her dedication to human rights and support for fellow students.
Namirembe has been active in advancing the youth voice for years. In 2020, she famously challenged the youth to remember that a "bird can fly but a fly cannot bird", telling them to be wary of older politicians using them for their own whims.
She said politicians were wont to ask vibrant youth to push forward their agenda but they are always the first to frustrate the same youth when they stand up to be counted.
Her ideals touched the hearts of many in politics, with photos of her meeting veteran Opposition stalwart Kizza Besigye, being widely shared on social media.
Robert Nestrooy Kayongo, a close friend, posted on social media: “Angela believed deeply in a new Uganda, one where everyone belonged. It breaks my heart that she left before seeing that dream come true. But I know her soul is at peace. She loved Holy Mary and Jesus so much, and I’m sure Mother Mary herself is waiting with open arms to welcome her home.”
Mirembe’s death is a significant loss to Uganda’s youth political movement and human rights advocacy, leaving a void in the fight for democracy, justice, and empowerment of young people.