Tayebwa Pays Tribute to Former MP Margaret Babadiri

The late Margaret Baba Diri, an icon of the disability movement in Uganda, passed away on Thursday.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has paid glowing tribute to the late Margaret Babadiri, describing her as a patriotic leader, mentor, and prayer warrior who left an indelible mark on Uganda's politics.

Tayebwa visited the family of the late Babadiri in Tula, Kawempe, where he was received by State Minister for Disability Affairs Helen Grace Asamo and Jessica Ababiku, the Adjumani Woman MP.

During the visit,Tayebwa held a closed-door meeting with the family before addressing mourners.

He praised Babadiri for her contributions to Parliament during her three terms as Koboko Woman MP, urging voters to emulate the people of Koboko for entrusting her with leadership.

He also emphasized the need for mentorship to improve the quality of Uganda’s leaders.

"One of the problems with politics in Uganda, especially for young people, is the lack of mentors. Honourable Asamo, you were mentored; now you need to go back and mentor others. If we want better leaders, we must nurture them, as Hon. Babadiri did for many, including Asamo and Ababiku," Tayebwa said.

Tayebwa announced that Parliament will hold a special sitting later this month to honor Babadiri's contributions.

Minister Asamo hailed Babadiri as an advocate for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and a champion for special needs education.

She credited Babadiri for mentoring her into elective politics.

MP Ababiku described Babadiri as a God-given leader and an icon for Koboko and Uganda.

A requiem mass will be held tomorrow at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church in Jinja Karoli, Kampala.

Babadiri’s body will then be transported to Koboko on Monday for a special sitting at Koboko District.

She will be laid to rest on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the Catholic Church Cemetery in Koboko.