Politics 19 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Parliament in Mourning Over Sudden Death of Kalangala MP Helen Nakimuli
Uganda's parliament is grieving the unexpected passing of Kalangala District Woman Representative Helen Nakimuli, an NUP opposition figure and shadow ICT minister, who died at 40 following a failed surgery. Political leaders from all sides have shared their shock and tributes to her dedicated service. Source: https://observer.ug/news/parliament-mourns-kalangala-woman-mp-helen-nakimuli
Parliamentarians across party lines have voiced profound sorrow over the sudden death of Helen Nakimuli, the Woman MP for Kalangala District.
The 40-year-old National Unity Platform (NUP) member, who served as shadow minister for ICT and National Guidance, passed away on Sunday afternoon at Alexandria Medical Centre after a surgical procedure went wrong. Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi revealed he spoke with her that morning around 9:00 am as she drove herself to the hospital for what she called a minor operation.
Her demise has stunned the political scene, especially with the 12th Parliament’s swearing-in set for May 14, 2026. Speaker Anita Among called her an esteemed colleague, highlighting her Orthodox faith roots as daughter of Rev. Fr. Christopher Walusimbi and her devotion to Ssese Islands residents.
Prior to her 2021 election, Nakimuli worked as a Community Development Officer in Bukebe, Bufumira, and Mazinga sub-counties, fueling her grassroots focus. Former LoP Mathias Mpuuga praised her early passion for local livelihoods that propelled her to national politics.
In Parliament, she fearlessly championed fishing communities as shadow minister for Fisheries, pushed for lake safety, and critiqued governance. Sports enthusiast, she loved netball, basketball, and volleyball, as noted by Chief Whip Denis Hamson Obua. Her final contribution on April 15 questioned Hoima City Stadium preparations for a CAF check.
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya labeled it a tragedy. Her body is now at Mulago Hospital mortuary for postmortem.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)