Kalangala, Uganda: The Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala District, Helen Nakimuli, has died following an unsuccessful surgical procedure, sending shockwaves across Uganda’s political landscape.
Nakimuli, who also served as the Shadow Minister for Information and was a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), was confirmed dead on Sunday by party president Robert Kyagulanyi.
Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Anita Annet Among confirmed the legislator’s death to the House in a Sunday evening post on X, expressing deep sorrow among Members of Parliament.
“Honourable colleagues, it is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of our esteemed colleague, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala and Shadow Minister for Information, Hon. Hellen Nakimuli,” Hon Among said.
“Words are insufficient to convey the shock we are experiencing at this moment, and we pray that the Lord Almighty sustains her family, friends, and all of us during this challenging time.”
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa described the loss as a significant blow to Parliament. “Nothing hits the August House harder than losing a colleague. We shall greatly miss you,” he said, extending condolences to her family, Parliament, Kalangala District, and her party.
Final Moments Before Surgery
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi revealed that he had spoken to Nakimuli shortly before she went in for the procedure.
“This morning at about 9 am, I spoke to Hon Hellen Nakimuli regarding a meeting of Opposition MPs that we were planning for tomorrow, and she was coordinating it as Shadow Minister for Information,” Ssenyonyi said.
“At the time, she was literally driving herself to hospital for a surgery which she indicated was not major. Unfortunately, she has not made it out of theatre. She has died during the procedure. Kitalo nyo dala!”
Nakimuli’s sudden death has triggered an outpouring of grief from political leaders and the public, with many describing her as a committed legislator and a strong voice for her constituents.
Her passing leaves a significant gap in Parliament, particularly within the opposition ranks where she played a key role in communication and coordination.
Parliament is expected to announce burial arrangements in the coming days.
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