Kampala – The Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda is in mourning following the sudden death of Pamela Etonu Okudi, the acting head of administration. Etonu was found dead at her home in Kitintale on the morning of July 21, 2024. She was 58 years old.
Julius Mucunguzi, the head of public relations and spokesperson for the Electoral Commission, confirmed the news, expressing shock and sadness over her sudden passing. “We woke up to the devastating news of Etonu’s death. She was a lively and supportive colleague who had been at work last week. We were informed through WhatsApp posts this morning,” Mucunguzi said.
The circumstances surrounding Etonu’s death are still unclear, as authorities await the results of a postmortem examination to determine the cause. Her body has been taken to Mulago National Referral Hospital for this purpose, with results expected on Monday.
Pamela Etonu was appointed by President Yoweri Museveni in January 2024 to serve as a commissioner on the Electoral Commission. Her role was to oversee the upcoming 2026 general elections alongside three other new members. The group included Dr. Simba Ssali Kayunga, a lecturer in political science at Makerere University; former Nansana MP Robert Kasule; and former Kyoga County MP Anthony Okello. However, President Museveni later rescinded the nominations of both Kasule and Etonu.
The initial list included:
Nominee | Position/Role |
---|---|
Pamela Etonu Okudi | Acting Head of Administration |
Dr. Simba Ssali Kayunga | Political Science Lecturer |
Robert Kasule | Former MP, Nansana |
Anthony Okello | Former MP, Kyoga County |
However, Etonu’s nomination, along with that of Robert Kasule, was later rescinded by President Museveni. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, and there has been speculation about the influence of internal politics and conflicts of interest.
In an interview with the media prior to the withdrawal of her nomination, Etonu described her appointment as a blessing. “I give all thanks to God; it’s God’s grace that I’m on this list. No human would have put me there, it’s all God,” Etonu, the daughter of former Amuria County MP Ben Etonu, said. She expressed gratitude to those who supported her, including President Museveni, and vowed to serve diligently.
The Electoral Commission has extended condolences to her family and colleagues during this difficult time. The results of the postmortem are expected on Monday, which may provide more clarity on the cause of her death.