Ntungamo District is mourning the death of veteran politician Kweronda Ruhemba, a former Member of Parliament for Kajara County and Minister for Economic Monitoring in the Office of the President, who passed away on Saturday at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. He was 79.
According to his brother, Dan Ruhemba, details regarding burial arrangements will be communicated later, although family sources indicate he will be laid to rest at his home in Butega village, Kagamba Town Council, on Thursday.
Ruhemba’s passing has drawn widespread tributes from leaders and residents, many of whom described him as a principled and selfless leader whose influence extended far beyond his years in active politics. He served as Kajara County MP during the National Resistance Council (NRC) and the Constituent Assembly (CA), playing a key role in Uganda’s legislative development during a formative political period.
Current Kajara County MP Michael Timuzigu Kamugisha described Ruhemba as a mentor and unifying figure who remained accessible even after leaving office. He noted that many leaders across political divides sought his counsel and endorsement, which often shaped leadership outcomes in the constituency.
Former Ntungamo District Chairperson Denis Singahache hailed Ruhemba as a pillar of development and a model of ethical leadership, emphasizing his commitment to advancing the interests of the people over personal gain. Similarly, Rushenyi County MP Naome Kabasharira praised him as a patriotic and objective legislator who mentored younger politicians and contributed significantly to the formation of Ntungamo District from the former Bushenyi area.
Ruhemba also served in the executive as Minister for Economic Monitoring, where he was involved in key national matters, including discussions surrounding the restructuring of Uganda Airlines. In a report to Parliament in 2000, he revealed details about the controversial disposal of the airline’s remaining aircraft, an episode that preceded the company’s collapse.
After losing his parliamentary seat in 2001 to Herbert Muntu, he was appointed Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, a position he held until 2009. His diplomatic service was widely commended, although his later years were marked by health challenges. Reports indicate he suffered a stroke following his abrupt replacement, which left him wheelchair-bound for over 15 years.
In recent years, concerns had been raised about his welfare, with some members of the public expressing regret over what they described as government neglect, citing the financial strain he endured while seeking medical care.
Despite these challenges, Ruhemba is remembered for his dedication to public service, his humility, and his unwavering commitment to national development. Family members described him as a loyal servant of the National Resistance Movement and a mentor whose impact will be felt for generations.
