Empty Front Seats and Unanswered Questions as Uganda Parliament Honors Hon. Muhammad Ssegiriny

The Parliament of Uganda convened a special sitting on 10th Jan 2025 to honour the life and service of the late Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, the former Member of Parliament for Kawempe North. Speaker of Parliament Hon. Anita Among led the sombre session, receiving the body of the deceased legislator at Parliament for final honours. Fellow legislators, family members, and dignitaries gathered to pay tribute to a man remembered for his dedication to public service and his significant contributions to the well-being of his constituents.

Hon. Abdu Katuntu reflected on the industrious and transformative journey of Hon. Ssegirinya. Rising from humble beginnings, Ssegirinya built a legacy of service through community mobilisation and philanthropy. He was instrumental in constructing the Kawempe North Hospital, a facility that provided free healthcare services to his constituents and beyond.

“Hon. Ssegirinya was a symbol of resilience, hard work, and a deep commitment to improving lives,” remarked Hon. Katuntu.

The special sitting also highlighted broader concerns about governance and human rights. Legislators like Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi expressed dismay over the government’s handling of Hon. Ssegirinya’s plight, particularly regarding allegations of torture, prolonged detention, and denial of bail.

“As we bid farewell to Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, let us renew our commitment to upholding the rule of law,” Ssenyonyi urged.

His remarks resonated deeply as Hon. Sarah Opendi questioned why incidents of torture persist despite the existence of the Anti-Torture Act, a law designed to prevent such abuses.

Notably, the absence of key government representatives during the tribute drew criticism from legislators and the public. The front bench, traditionally occupied by Cabinet Ministers, was conspicuously empty.

Hon. Balaam Ateenyi expressed regret on behalf of the government, acknowledging any mismanagement that may have occurred during Hon. Ssegirinya’s life. However, the absence of senior officials in Parliament to formally move the tribute motion sparked disappointment.

“I was glad to see the motion to honour the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, but it is troubling that no one from the government was here to move it,” remarked Hon. Ssenyonyi.

The session served as a platform for reflecting on the broader implications of Hon. Ssegirinya’s experience. Legislators emphasised accountability, justice, and respect for human rights.

“Equality and justice must be more than ideals; they must be the lived reality for every Ugandan,” said Hon. Balaam Ateenyi.

The emotional ceremony was attended by Hon. Ssegirinya’s parents, family members, and colleagues, who celebrated his legacy while mourning his untimely death. His life’s work as a community mobiliser, health advocate, and MP was commended, even as the circumstances surrounding his passing raised pressing questions about the state of governance and human rights in Uganda.

As Uganda bids farewell to Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, the calls for justice, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law echo loudly within and beyond the chambers of Parliament.