President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni expressed regret over the missed opportunity to work more closely with the late Dokolo legislator, Cecilia Atim Ogwal, during a tribute on Monday, January 22, 2024. Ogwal, a Member of Parliament since 1996, passed away on January 18, 2024, in India after a brief illness.
Accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, President Museveni attended a vigil at Parliament to honour the late legislator. He lamented that political fragmentation hindered their collaboration, stating, “I feel sad because of the politics of fragmentation. We couldn’t work together fully although we had similar qualities.”
President Museveni urged fellow Members of Parliament to seize opportunities for collaboration, especially on matters of national importance. He acknowledged Ogwal’s patriotism, recounting her unwavering stance against rebel pressure during the conflict with the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
Reflecting on their encounters during the Constituent Assembly and African Parliament, President Museveni praised Ogwal’s independent and positive role, emphasizing her rejection of the politics of hatred. He highlighted her role in rejecting divisive politics and expressed gratitude to leaders who resist such ideologies.
Describing Ogwal as a leader of development and an incorruptible MP, President Museveni commended her contributions towards pacifying the northern region during the LRA insurgency. He also acknowledged her achievements in raising a family and contributing to the country.
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Anita Among, thanked President Museveni for granting the late legislator an official burial, emphasizing Ogwal’s role as a uniting factor in the Parliament. The vigil was attended by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, Premier Robinah Nabbanja, ministers, and Members of Parliament.
At the time of her death, Cecilia Ogwal served on parliamentary committees on physical infrastructure and budget. She was also Uganda’s representative to the Pan African Parliament (PAP) and a Parliamentary Commissioner in the 10th Parliament.
