The Residents of Kisoro are mourning the sudden death of their Member of Parliament and State Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke.
Dr. Gideon Mugisha, the minister’s elder brother, and her father, Dr. Phillimon Mateke, have confirmed that Minister Nyirabashitsi suffered a heart attack at her home in Kampala early in the morning. She was pronounced dead at the age of 50 shortly after arriving at Mengo Hospital, where she had been rushed for treatment.
Ngabo Edward, also known as Farian, Lydia Nyirarukundo, and Jacquiline Irankunda—all residents of Kisoro Municipality—remarked that the minister was a pillar in promoting education, health, and improving the livelihoods of the people in Kisoro District and Uganda as a whole. They noted that Sarah was effective in leadership, communication, and providing visionary guidance, support, and counseling to individuals and families.
Meanwhile, Ndikwizeye Ramanthan, the Mayor of Kisoro Municipality’s Central Division, praised Sarah Mateke as a determined and committed leader, especially in delivering services to her constituents. He called on Kisoro’s leaders to honor her legacy with humility, authenticity, cultural relevance, adaptability, and a sense of humor.
