Parliament held a pre-funeral service for the former District Woman Representative for Kisoro, Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, who passed away on Saturday, 7 September 2024, in Kampala.
The service was led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who acknowledged the grief felt by her family and the nation.
“As humans, we are deeply saddened by the untimely death of our sister Sarah, but we cannot question God’s plan. As Revelation 21:4 reminds us, ‘God will wipe away all tears, and there will be no more death, sorrow, or crying.’ Sarah is now at peace, and we trust she is in God’s hands,” he said.
He also praised her humility and dedication to the church, noting that she worshiped quietly without seeking recognition.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among expressed her sorrow over Nyirabashitsi’s passing, highlighting her deep sense of care and friendship.
In addition to her role as District Woman Representative, Nyirabashitsi had served as the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs since April 2024 and previously held the position of Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs from June 2021.
“Sarah was a deeply loving person who would go to great lengths to support others. She was more than just a colleague—she was a true friend. Parliament and the people of Kisoro have lost an exceptional woman,” Among said.
She also pledged Parliament’s continued support to Nyirabashitsi’s family, especially her young son, emphasizing that her legacy should endure.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, conveying President Museveni’s condolences, described Nyirabashitsi as a “devoted servant of God” and an advocate for children’s welfare.
Meanwhile, Richard Todwong, Secretary-General of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), reflected on her significant contributions to both her community and the party.
He recounted a conversation during a by-election in Kisoro, where she boldly rejected aligning with religious or tribal divisions, emphasizing her loyalty to the party and the government.
Todwong commended Nyirabashitsi and her sister for campaigning tirelessly against forces that sought to divide Kisoro along ethnic and tribal lines, urging other leaders to focus on self-care and spirituality.
A special parliamentary session is scheduled for Tuesday, 10 September 2024, to pay tribute to the late legislator, preceded by a funeral service at All Saints’ Cathedral in Kampala.
Nyirabashitsi, who served in the 9th and 11th Parliaments, will be laid to rest on Thursday, 12 September 2024, in Kisoro. She is survived by her son.
