President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his condolences over the passing of Maitland Lawrence Rukaari, the father of Mbarara North MP Robert Mwesigwa Rukaari. Maitland Lawrence Rukaari, a well-known farmer and businessman in the Ankole sub-region, succumbed to diabetes at the age of 89 at the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital on October 23.
During the burial ceremony held in Nkokonjeru ward in Mbarara City, President Museveni was represented by the Minister of State for Animal Industry and Isingiro North MP, Bright Rwamirama. President Museveni shared a family connection, stating that his late mother, Esiteeri Kokundeka, was from the Beene Rukaari clan.
President Museveni acknowledged the Rukaari family’s contributions to the liberation struggle and commended Maitland Lawrence Rukaari for his role in the development of modern-day Mbarara. He expressed surprise at the news of Rukaari’s passing and contributed sh10m towards the burial expenses.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, praised Rukaari’s significant contributions to the development of the Ankole sub-region, highlighting his role as an elder and a respected farmer. Tayebwa emphasized that Mzee had made a lasting impact through his dedication to raising and educating children who are contributing to the nation’s future.
Justice Minister and Democratic Party President, Norbert Mao, noted that Rukaari had touched many lives and emphasized the love and respect people had for him. He praised Rukaari’s legacy and the gathering of people from around the world to pay their respects.
Richard Todwong, the Secretary-General of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, paid tribute to Rukaari’s role as a pillar of the nation and his influence in nurturing future leaders in various capacities.
Maitland Lawrence Rukaari had seven children with his first wife, Evas, who passed away in 2002. In 2004, he married Jane Rukaari. Rukaari’s life was marked by his work as a transporter, farmer, and businessman in Mbarara, Rukungiri, Ntungamo, and Kampala. His life was enriched with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
