Government Launches Probe into Death of MP Hellen Nakimuli

The government has assumed control of the investigation into the death of Hellen Nakimuli, the 40-year-old Kalangala Woman Member of Parliament. She died on Sunday at Alexandria Medical Centre in Kampala following a failed surgery, sparking widespread questions.

A formal inquiry is now underway to determine the precise cause of death, reviewing her medical care, the clinic’s operations, and the doctors involved. ICT and National Guidance Minister Chris Baryomunsi announced at her funeral that the Ministry of Health, alongside the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council (UMDPC), formed a panel of experts.

The team will assess surgical protocols, potential negligence, and post-operation handling. Baryomunsi stressed checking if Nakimuli was a regular patient, the facility’s licensing, and the staff’s credentials. Findings will be shared with Parliament.

He urged the public to avoid spreading unverified social media rumours, warning of potential regulations against misinformation. This follows past probes, like the 2022 inquiry into Speaker Jacob Oulanyah’s death.

At the Namungoona Orthodox Church funeral, Archbishop Jeronymos Muzeeyi praised Nakimuli’s devotion and service to Buganda, the church, and her constituents. As the sole re-elected Orthodox MP in the 12th Parliament, her loss leaves a void.

Opposition figures, including NUP’s Dr. Lina Zedriga, used the event to criticise corruption, rights abuses, and demand Robert Kyagulanyi’s return from the US. She called for releasing political prisoners to honour Nakimuli’s justice advocacy.

Hundreds attended, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi, Buganda’s Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, and fellow MPs. Nakimuli was buried in Luwero, survived by her daughter Melanire Namirimu.

Source: Daily Monitor