Kampala, (UG):- From humble beginnings to becoming a household name in Uganda’s political sphere, Muhammad Ssegirinya’s life was a remarkable testament to resilience and purpose. His journey, filled with activism, philanthropy, and political drama, left an indelible mark on the people he served.
Until his untimely demise on Thursday, January 09, 2025, at Lubaga Hospital, Ssegirinya remained a fearless advocate for justice and a dedicated servant of the underprivileged.
At 36 years old, Ssegirinya had lived a life filled with both challenges and triumphs. He first gained public attention as a regular caller on radio talk shows, earning a reputation as an outspoken political commentator.
The humorous yet bold critiques of political injustices earned him the moniker Eddoboozi lye Kyebando (The Voice of Kyebando), a reflection of his deep connection to his community.
Ssegirinya’s persistence and determination propelled him from being a voice on the airwaves to a leader in his Kawempe North constituency.
In 2021, his long-held dream of representing his people became a reality when he won the parliamentary seat with an overwhelming 41,197 votes, defeating seasoned politicians. His victory demonstrated the trust and faith his constituents had in him as a champion of the grassroots.
Known for his dramatic activism, Ssegirinya frequently made headlines for his unconventional protests.
For example, in 2015, he led a demonstration against the Uganda Communications Commission’s transition from analog to digital television, fearing it would marginalize the poor. His dramatic arrival at Parliament carrying a domestic television set underscored his unwavering commitment to the cause.
Philanthropy was central to Ssegirinya’s mission. As an MP, he used his earnings to establish the Kawempe North Medical Centre, a health facility dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of his constituents.
He also acquired ambulances to assist in medical emergencies and launched the Segibox initiative, providing discharged patients with food, financial assistance, and starter packages. His actions earned him admiration and solidified his reputation as a leader who genuinely cared for his people.
However, Ssegirinya’s outspoken nature and unconventional methods often made him a target. Political rivals and even colleagues within the Opposition viewed him as a threat due to his refusal to conform to the norms of self-enrichment. His academic qualifications also sparked controversy, with opponents questioning his credentials and engaging in legal battles over his eligibility to hold office.
Despite these challenges, Ssegirinya remained undeterred. After earlier stints with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), he found his political home in the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Under NUP’s banner, he secured a decisive victory in the Kawempe North MP race. NUP Secretary-General Lewis Rubongoya eulogized him as a “dedicated and loyal member of Parliament we shall all miss.”
Ssegirinya also embraced social media to connect with his constituents, earning the nickname Mr. Update for his frequent posts on Facebook. Through his updates, he mobilized support, provided assistance, and kept his community informed, further endearing himself to the people he served.
Yet his life was marked by adversity. Arrested shortly after assuming office, Ssegirinya faced numerous charges, including terrorism and incitement to violence, which many believed were politically motivated.
His health deteriorated in detention, as he battled hepatic cholangiopathy and cryptococcal meningitis. Despite pleas for bail to seek medical treatment, his requests were denied.
In one of the heartbreaking moments, Ssegirinya displayed his rotting body during a virtual court session, begging for intervention, but his pleas went unanswered. His lawyer, Erias Lukwago, frequently decried the inhumane treatment Ssegirinya endured, stating that his client was “dying from prison.”
Ssegirinya’s last days were marred by eviction from his constituency office on Gayaza Road, a move his aide Alex Luswa Luwemba attributed to political witch-hunting. His colleague Allan Ssewanyana, speaking through tears, remembered Ssegirinya as a man who always prioritized his constituents, even in the face of immense suffering.
Prominent activist Stella Nyanzi blamed the government for his death, stating, “His health deteriorated when he was battling trumped-up charges of the Masaka massacres for which he was imprisoned for two years.”
Ssegirinya’s journey, though fraught with challenges, exemplified a life of dedication, compassion, and resilience. He fought tirelessly for the underprivileged and left a legacy of servant leadership that will inspire future generations.
Rest in Power, Muhammad Ssegirinya!
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