Shamim Malende - Another NUP MP Struggling with Health Challenges

KAMPALA – Shamim Malende, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kampala and a voice in Uganda's opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has navigated a political tenure marked by severe health challenges and political strife. Her journey reflects not only her resilience but also the complex dynamics of Ugandan politics.

In November 2022, Malende experienced a distressing health crisis when she collapsed at her home in Kawempe. The incident prompted an urgent admission to Uganda Martyr's Hospital in Rubaga, where her deteriorating condition required a swift transfer to the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. There, she underwent two critical surgeries to address persistent abdominal complications, a harrowing experience that kept her in treatment for nearly five months. Upon her return to Uganda in February 2023, Malende expressed a fervent commitment to her parliamentary responsibilities, vowing to advocate for her fellow NUP MPs, Allan Ssewanyana and Muhammad Ssegirinya (RIP), who were facing legal challenges.

However, the political landscape proved perilous. In November 2024, during a contentious parliamentary session focused on the controversial coffee debate, Malende’s resistance to oppression was met with aggressive force. Plainclothes security operatives forcibly removed her from the chamber, inflicting injuries to her chest and shoulder. This incident led to a 12-day hospitalization at Nsambya Hospital, where she recovered from the physical and emotional trauma. Following her discharge, Malende announced her intention to pursue legal action against the operatives involved, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and respect for human rights within Uganda's political system.

Despite the hardships she faced, Malende has garnered widespread support from colleagues, constituents, and the general public. Many have rallied around her, offering heartfelt prayers and messages of encouragement. "May she recover from what she's suffering from! She's one of the good and generous persons I know of whom the society still needs," tweeted Captain Dr. Ashraph Rubagangura Agaba, a close associate. His words echo the sentiments of many who admire her unwavering dedication to advocating for justice and the voiceless.

As of January 2025, Malende is in the process of recovering from her latest health setbacks while striving to return to her active role in parliament. Her story encapsulates the struggles faced by many in Uganda's political sphere, where health and human rights intersect. Supporters continue to express their well wishes, hopeful for her return to full health and her unwavering pursuit of justice within the corridors of power.