Parliament sat in a sombre tribute to the late Helen Nakimuli, as legislators honoured her legacy of service and advocacy while pledging support to her family.
During the special sitting, Speaker Anita Annet Among announced that she had secured full tuition for Nakimuli’s daughter up to Senior Four through Bukedea Comprehensive School, relaying a message from Kibuli Secondary School regarding the child’s education.
The education support was part of a broader package for the bereaved family, which included Shs20 million from the President, Shs10 million from the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, Shs10 million from the Speaker, Shs5 million from Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, and Shs1 million from Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua.
Ms Among also confirmed that Parliament will meet all burial expenses, ensuring that the financial contributions go directly toward supporting Nakimuli’s child.
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi urged the House to ensure that tributes translate into meaningful national change.
“Honouring the late Helen Nakimuli should go beyond words and include strengthening systems so that no Ugandan loses their life in the way she did,” Ssenyonyi said, calling for greater accountability and improved service delivery.
Vice President Jessica Alupo eulogised Nakimuli as a results-oriented leader who prioritised problem-solving over political theatrics.
“She didn’t have time for trivialities; she would reach out to any leader with a clear purpose of solving the problems of her people,” Alupo said.
Kalangala Woman MP Nakimuli died on Sunday after undergoing surgery for to treat uterine fibroid at Alexandra Medical Centre in Kampala.
Before her election in 2021 under the National Unity Platform (NUP), Nakimuli served for seven years as a Community Development Officer in Kalangala District.
In Parliament, she held roles as Shadow Minister for Agriculture and later Shadow Minister for ICT and Anti-Corruption.
She was widely recognised as a champion for island communities and women’s empowerment, and was also active in sports, serving as captain of Parliament’s volleyball team.
