Ssegirinya: A man who never altered his unapologetic stance
“His outspoken nature resonated with many, particularly among young Ugandans who felt disconnected from the political elite,” Kaheru told New Vision in an interview.
Muhammad Ssegirinya died aged 37 at Rubaga Hospital in Kampala on Thursday (January 9). (Courtesy photo)
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
The late Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya’s rise to national prominence was marked by his unapologetic stance on social justice issues, his advocacy for the marginalised, and his fearless approach in challenging injustice.
Ssegirinya, died aged 37 at Rubaga Hospital in Kampala on Thursday (January 9), where he had been in the intensive care unit for a couple of days.
Crispin Kaheru, a political analyst and member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, said the late MP was occasionally a vocal critic of government policies, particularly in matters relating to youth empowerment and health.
“His outspoken nature resonated with many, particularly among young Ugandans who felt disconnected from the political elite,” he told New Vision in an interview.
As an MP, Kaheru said Ssegirinya was seen as a champion of the oppressed, often taking bold steps to confront the issues that affected his constituents and the wider Ugandan population.
His political activism sometimes overshadowed his legislative duties, and his style of politics, while passionate, was also occasionally seen as ambivalent.
“This polarised opinions about him, with some viewing him as a true advocate for change, while others considered him to be an imprudent figure whose actions could jeopardize the change that he often advocated for,” Kaheru noted.
He and other analysts said Ssegirinya’s passing at such a young age adds a layer of tragedy to his story, especially considering the potential he had to influence Uganda’s political future.
They noted that what is indisputable is his ability to mobilise people, especially the youth, and give voice to those who felt marginalised or unheard.
“He was a symbol of youthful determination and defiance, probably an embodiment of the struggles faced by ordinary Ugandans, particularly the youth who continue to seek representation in a political system in order to be fully heard,” Kaheru stated.
He noted that his death leaves a void, but it also serves as a reminder of the need to continue the work he began, focusing on social justice, and equity in Uganda’s political and social systems.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Ruhinda North MP Thomas Tayebwa said it is always tough and heartbreaking when they lose one of their own.
“Hon. Ssegirinya used to bring joy and laughter to the chambers and corridors of Parliament with his charisma and wit. His absence will be deeply felt,” he said.
Tayebwa offered his “heartfelt sympathies” to the deceased MP’s family, especially his mother, Justine Nakajumba, and brother, Kasagga, saying they took tremendous care of him while in hospital.
He also offered his sympathies to the community of Kawempe North who stood by their MP all through.
The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and Nakawa West MP, Joel Ssenyonyi, eulogised Ssegirinya as “a very practical MP”.
“He didn’t think of being an MP as just speaking good English and wearing nice suits. He was the kind of person who would get down to his people and connect with them in a very practical way. It's a very sad day,” he said.
Ssegirinya’s National Unity Platform party released a tentative funeral programme, saying he would be honoured in Parliament on Friday and that the Muslims would also hold prayers for him that very day at Mbogo Mosque in Kawempe.
The main opposition party said his body will then be taken to his ancestral grounds in Butale village, Masaka City for burial on Sunday, January 12, 2025.