Parliament honours fallen Kalangala Woman MP Nakimuli, contributes millions to support family

KAMPALA: The Parliament of Uganda has paid glowing tribute to former Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament, Helen Nakimuli, as her body lay in state at the August House ahead of her burial.

Nakimuli’s remains were received at Parliament during a solemn ceremony led by Speaker Anita Annet Among, who described the late legislator as a calm, compassionate, and dedicated leader whose impact went beyond her time in office.

A special sitting was convened, during which Members of Parliament paid tribute and laid wreaths on the casket in honour of the former Kalangala Woman MP. The Speaker noted that Nakimuli was not confrontational in debate, often presenting her views with clarity and relying on facts, which earned her respect across the political divide.

She also highlighted Nakimuli’s active role beyond legislative work, particularly in sports, where she contributed to Parliament’s strong performance in regional inter-parliamentary games.

Parliament and leaders announced financial contributions to support the bereaved family. President Yoweri Museveni contributed Shs20 million, while the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus and the Speaker each contributed Shs10 million. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa contributed Shs5 million, and Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua contributed Shs1 million.

The Speaker further announced that Parliament would meet burial expenses, with additional support directed towards Nakimuli’s child. She revealed that school fees had been cleared up to Senior Four, with arrangements underway to ensure continued education.

Members from both the ruling party and opposition described Nakimuli as approachable, disciplined, and deeply committed to her constituents in Kalangala, noting that her death is a significant loss to Parliament and the country.

Tributes and viewing of the body continue today at Parliament, with legislators and members of the public paying their last respects.

The burial programme will proceed tomorrow in Kalangala District, where a delegation of Members of Parliament and government officials is expected to join the family and constituents to lay the late legislator to rest.

Nakimuli’s passing has drawn widespread mourning, with leaders remembering her as a dedicated public servant whose legacy will endure in her constituency and the nation at large.