MP Nakimuli was a leader beyond political colours — Tayebwa

KAMPALA - Hundreds of mourners gathered at St. Nicholas Cathedral Parish in Namungoona, Kampala, on Thursday to attend the final requiem mass of the late Hellen Nakimuli before her body was taken for burial in Bulemeezi, Kayunga Lunyolya.

Nakimuli, 40, served as the Woman Member of Parliament representing the people of Kalangala district.

Mourners were in a sombre mood, and the church was wrapped in a heavy silence, the kind that presses on the chest and slows every breath. It was a farewell not just to a woman but to a force that Nakimuli embodied throughout her service as a legislator in the 11th parliament.

Nakimuli was described by many, including the Deputy Speaker, as a leader who rose above political divisions. From the beginning of the church service, speakers shared positive reflections on her life and challenged themselves to emulate her example.

“Nakimuli was a personal friend. When I was elected Deputy Speaker, she came to my office and congratulated me when other opposition legislators were busy criticising,” said Thomas Tayebwa, who also served as the chief mourner.

Tayebwa said that Nakimuli once visited his office to request more time to discuss the unique challenges affecting her district of Kalangala.

Tayebwa noted that during parliamentary sports activities, Nakimuli mobilised Members of Parliament across political lines and ensured unity among them. To him, this was a clear demonstration of her ability to transcend political affiliations.

He added that in Parliament, Nakimuli consistently advocated for discussions centred on community development rather than partisan interests.

Tayebwa said that Nakimuli once visited his office to request more time to discuss the unique challenges affecting her district of Kalangala.

“She would tell me that her people faced many unique challenges and needed sufficient time on the floor of Parliament to address them,” he said.

According to Tayebwa, even when Nakimuli had the opportunity to publicly criticise a colleague on the floor of Parliament, she often chose a more discreet and constructive approach.

"There was a minister she was not happy with. She came to me and said a minister was involved in illegal fishing while locals were being chased away. Together, we engaged the minister, and the matter was resolved,” he explained.

He added that many others would have used such an opportunity to publicly shame the minister, but Nakimuli preferred dialogue and resolution. “If we continue handling matters this way, life can become fair for everyone,” he said.

Tayebwa also suggested that Nakimuli must have been raised in a religious family that emphasised discipline values he believes are increasingly lacking today.

“She wanted unity even in sports. She was our cheerleader; we danced Kadodi together. In our free time as legislators, we can be like children, but our colleague stood out,” he remarked.

While acknowledging reports of conflicts among people over wealth, Tayebwa urged Ugandans to emulate Nakimuli’s kindness. “From her, we learn that Uganda belongs to all of us and has everything needed to improve our lives,” he said.

His Eminence Jeronymos Muzeeyi, Archbishop of Central Uganda for Orthodox, noted that even in difficult times, Nakimuli maintained a warm smile that welcomed everyone.

He added that she was outspoken on matters concerning her constituents and the will of the people she represented.

“She was ready to sacrifice for her people, the kingdom, and her country. She stood firmly against the embezzlement of government funds. That is why the people of Kalangala trusted her again,” he said.

As a senior Orthodox leader, Muzeeyi observed that Nakimuli and Theodore Ssekikubo were among the few strong Orthodox parliamentarians, expressing concern that neither of them is now present.

Overcome with emotion, he described her as “a complete leader” before stepping away from the microphone in tears. The entire congregation, including the Deputy Speaker, paused to wipe away tears as the weight of the loss settled in.

When Theodore Ssekikubo spoke, his remarks stirred reflection. “It is hard to understand me. In my 25 years in Parliament, even my party has not always understood me. I served beyond political lines just like Nakimuli,” he said.

He added, “Among all 529 Members of Parliament, God chooses Nakimuli, why?” he asked.

Ssekikubo emphasised the importance of truth, even when it is uncomfortable. He urged Ugandans to speak out whenever they feel something is wrong, regardless of the consequences.

Lina Zedriga, the acting president of the National Unity Platform, expressed disbelief at Nakimuli’s passing. She described her as a leader who opened doors for the people of Kalangala and elevated the district’s recognition.

“We celebrate her because of her outspoken voice. She gave hope to those who had lost it,” she said.

The Buganda Kingdom described Nakimuli as a devoted promoter of Kiganda culture and a strong advocate for women’s issues.

Archpriest Christopher Walusimbi, Nakimuli’s father, called for calmness and urged the public to avoid speculation about the cause of his daughter’s death.

However, he surprised mourners by revealing that when Nakimuli’s daughter turns 18, the family intends to support her in continuing her mother’s unfinished work.

Meanwhile, Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, said that despite political differences, he worked closely with Nakimuli when she served as a shadow minister.

He noted that she often provided constructive and practical suggestions.

“She was one of the most active NUP Members of Parliament and worked well with everyone beyond political lines,” he said.