Condolences and tributes are flowing in for Cecilia Ogwal, the Dokolo Woman MP and veteran lawmaker, who passed away at the age of 77 after succumbing to cancer in an Indian hospital on Thursday, January 18.
Speaker of Parliament and Bukedea Woman MP, Anita Among, expressed her deep sorrow and pain as she announced Ogwal’s passing. Among described Ogwal as a mother, mentor, and role model. She extended heartfelt sympathies to Ogwal’s family, friends, the people of Lango, and colleagues, wishing her soul eternal rest.
Deputy Speaker and Ruhinda North MP, Thomas Tayebwa, joined in the tributes, highlighting the significant loss felt not only by Uganda but the entire world, particularly the parliamentary fraternity. Tayebwa acknowledged Ogwal’s instrumental role in guiding and shaping local leaders and advocating for a just global agenda. He noted Ogwal’s contributions to the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States joint Parliamentary Assembly, emphasizing that her legacy would endure.
Tayebwa also expressed sadness that they did not have the chance to physically bid Ogwal farewell when they learned of her terminal illness. He acknowledged her tireless work and implored her to intercede on their behalf in her new role beyond this life.
Adolf Mwesige, the Clerk to Parliament and former MP, lamented the sad moment for the House, where Ogwal had been a member since 1996. He recalled her mentorship of younger parliamentarians and noted her significant contributions to the institution.
Presidential advisor on special duties, Odrek Rwabwogo, mourned the loss of his “dear friend” Ogwal, describing her as a woman with firm stances on human rights and democracy. Rwabwogo reminisced about Ogwal’s resilience and her role in representing the Uganda People’s Congress in the early 1990s. He praised her mature approach to politics and recognized her with the Uganda Leadership Award in February 2023.
