Screenshot
In the corridors of parliament, it has been an open secret that HELEN NAKIMULI, the Kalangala Woman MP, was one of the most sought-after MPs.
Always charming and friendly, she had a magnet that pulled everyone to her. Her combination of beauty and outspokenness made her of the outstanding National Unity Platform (NUP) MPs. For journalists, she was always a call away to get a comment on anything, be it human rights or environmental degradation or even counseling.
She freely joked with anyone but would sometimes be fierce during debates, especially those concerning human rights abuses. Unfortunately, she is no more. He sudden passing on April 18 has left a void in the political landscape, writes Geofrey Serugo. Nakimuli, who also served as the shadow minister for Information, died shortly after undergoing surgery at Alexandria specialized hospital along Yusuf Lule road in Kampala.
The procedure had initially been described as successful, making news of her death all the more shocking. Her passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across political divides, with leaders describing her as a vibrant, dedicated, and principled legislator whose voice carried the hopes and concerns of the island communities of Kalangala.
Robert Kyagulanyi, the NUP president, expressed shock and sorrow at the loss.
“Terrible, shocking news! Hellen Nakimuli, Woman MP for Kalangala District, has passed on after an unsuccessful surgery. May God strengthen all of us in this very tough time,” he wrote on X.
Speaker Anita Among described her passing as a moment of profound grief. Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition, revealed that he had spoken to Nakimuli just a day before her death.
“On Sunday, I spoke to her about a meeting of opposition MPs scheduled for Monday regarding the Sexual Offences Bill and other issues, which she was coordinating in her role as shadow minister for Information,” Ssenyonyi said.
“At the time, she was driving herself to the hospital for what she described as a minor procedure. Tragically, she never made it out of theatre.” Ssenyonyi noted that many questions remain surrounding the circumstances of her death and expressed hope that ongoing postmortem examinations would provide clarity and answers to her grieving family and the nation.
Tributes have since come in from across the political fraternity, reflecting the wide respect Nakimuli commanded. Bbaale County MP Charles Tebandeke described her death as a national tragedy, emphasizing the loss of a promising young leader.
“Losing a young, energetic leader is a huge loss to the country. She was one of the most brilliant and vibrant MPs, focused on national issues without fear or favour. Her death leaves us in deep sorrow,” he said.
Kira Municipality MP-elect George Musisi praised Nakimuli as a committed advocate for justice and a strong mobiliser within the change-seeking forces.
“Her relatives have lost a loving mother, daughter, and sister; the NUP has lost a formidable and reliable fighter; and the country has lost a patriot and national leader,” Musisi said.
Kagoma North MP Alex Brandon Kintu, who also serves as spokesperson of the NRM Caucus, extended condolences on behalf of the ruling party, highlighting Nakimuli’s ability to bridge political divides.
He noted that despite belonging to different political camps, Nakimuli was a unifying figure who actively participated in parliamentary activities beyond politics, including sports.
“She was a young and energetic leader whose death is deeply saddening. She represented Parliament in the East African Parliamentary Games and won several trophies. She was also a strong voice for fishing communities and a committed Christian,” Kintu said.
A RISING POLITICAL CAREER CUT SHORT
Nakimuli’s death not only robs parliament of one of its energetic young leaders but also leaves the people of Kalangala without a fierce advocate who consistently championed their needs on the floor of the August House.
A rising political figure, her tenure in parliament was marked by determination, clarity of purpose, and a growing influence within the opposition ranks. Colleagues remember her as approachable yet firm, a leader who combined warmth with a strong sense of justice.
Within a short time, she had established herself as a key voice in national debates, particularly on issues of governance, accountability, and social equity. Beyond the political arena, Nakimuli was a passionate advocate for human rights and the rule of law.
She frequently spoke out on matters affecting vulnerable populations, including access to justice, fair treatment under the law, and the protection of civil liberties. Her work in Kalangala district earned her widespread admiration.
Representing an island district with unique geographical and infrastructural challenges, Nakimuli persistently pushed for improvements in healthcare services and transport networks, arguing that development must reach even the most remote communities.
Her commitment to these causes was evident in both her parliamentary contributions and her engagement with constituents, many of whom viewed her as a dependable and transformative leader.
In one of her recent public appearances, Nakimuli attended special prayers marking the Kabaka’s 71st birthday at St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral in Namungoona. During the event, she made a passionate call for the release of individuals she described as political prisoners, highlighting what she viewed as inconsistencies in the justice system.
“On X (formerly Twitter), I saw a suspect in the Ggaba toddler school killings under full security and protection, yet innocent people arrested over their political affiliations are rotting in jail,” she said.
“They have not been granted bail or given a chance to be heard and some have been detained for five years.” Her remarks reflected a broader commitment to justice and fairness, themes that defined much of her political messaging.
WHO WAS NAKIMULI?
She was born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kyamuswa sub-county in Kalangala, to Rev Christopher Walusimbi, a Greek Orthodox priest, and Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, a former district councillor.
Her upbringing in a family grounded in faith and community leadership played a significant role in shaping her values and aspirations. She began her education at Bukasa Primary School before joining Hormisdallen Primary School in Bweyogerere, Wakiso district.
She later attended Our Lady of Good Counsel SS in Gayaza for her O-level and St Augustine SS in Wakiso for her A-level, where she served as head girl, an early indication of her leadership potential.
Nakimuli went on to pursue higher education at Makerere University. As the nation comes to terms with her loss, Nakimuli’s legacy remains firmly etched in the causes she championed, the lives she touched, and the vision she held for a more just and inclusive society.
Her voice may have fallen silent, but the impact of her work will continue to resonate in Parliament, in Kalangala, and across the country for years to come.
