Politics 24 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Helen Nakimuli: Charismatic Kalangala MP and Fierce Human Rights Advocate Passes Away
Helen Nakimuli, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Woman MP for Kalangala, died suddenly on April 18 after surgery at a Kampala hospital, leaving a profound void in Uganda's political scene. Known for her charm, approachability, and bold stance on human rights and environmental issues, she earned widespread admiration across party lines. Source: https://observer.ug/news/nakimuli-was-a-charming-beauty-outspoken-on-human-rights-abuses
Helen Nakimuli: Charismatic Kalangala MP and Fierce Human Rights Advocate Passes Away
Helen Nakimuli, the Woman MP for Kalangala District and a prominent National Unity Platform (NUP) member, was celebrated in parliament for her magnetic personality and striking beauty. Colleagues described her as always friendly and accessible, drawing people in effortlessly while standing out as one of the opposition’s most vibrant voices.
Journalists valued her reliability for comments on critical topics like human rights violations, environmental concerns, and even personal advice. In debates, she blended humor with fierce determination, particularly when addressing injustices.
Tragically, Nakimuli passed away on April 18 following surgery at Alexandria Specialized Hospital in Kampala. Though initially reported as successful, her death shocked many, including NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, who called it “terrible, shocking news” on X.
Speaker Anita Among and Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi also mourned her deeply. Ssenyonyi revealed speaking with her just a day prior about an upcoming opposition meeting on the Sexual Offences Bill; she had described the procedure as minor while driving herself to the hospital.
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Charles Tebandeke called her death a national tragedy, praising her brilliance and fearlessness. George Musisi lauded her as a patriot and mobilizer, while NRM’s Alex Brandon Kintu highlighted her unifying role, sports achievements in East African Parliamentary Games, and advocacy for fishing communities.
Born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kalangala, to Rev. Christopher Walusimbi and Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, Nakimuli rose through top schools, serving as head girl at St. Augustine SS, before studying at Makerere University.
As Shadow Minister for Information, she championed Kalangala’s island communities, pushing for better healthcare and transport. She vocally criticized injustices, recently calling for the release of political prisoners during Kabaka’s birthday prayers.
Her sudden loss robs parliament of a rising star committed to governance, accountability, and social equity, but her legacy endures in the causes she fought for.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)