KAMPALA- Uganda’s Lubaga Hospital has finally announced the death of Kawempe North Member of Parliament, Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya. The announcement follows numerous reports about his death that were being referred to as fake news.
According to the Lubaga Hospital Executive Director Sr. Grace Nanyondo, where Ssegirinya was being treated, the MP had been critically ill for several days.
Sr. Nanyondo at first stated that the legislator was critically sick. “He needs our love and prayers. We cannot declare him dead. He’s critically sick.” However, the Hospital in a statement on Thursday afternoon announced the legislator’s death at around 12:10PM.
Makindye West MP Allan Ssewanyana, a close ally, shared a deeply emotional recollection of the final days of Ssegirinya’s life, highlighting their shared experiences during their over 500 days of incarceration. “It shouldn’t have been you, Ssegirinya, to die at this time,” an emotional Ssewanyana said, as he reflected on their journey together.
Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, also paid tribute to the fallen MP, recalling the rapid decline in Ssegirinya’s health. “His condition worsened in the past few days, and doctors advised limited visits to avoid infections. This morning, we received a call from his mother informing us of his passing,” Ssenyonyi shared with the press.
Ssegirinya’s political career was marred by controversy. In 2021, he was arrested under allegations of involvement in rebel activities in the Greater Masaka region. He was charged with murder and attempted murder but was never formally convicted.
Many believe the charges were politically motivated, and aimed at silencing prominent opposition voices. Along with fellow MP Allan Ssewanyana, Ssegirinya spent time in Kitalya Maximum Security Prison before being released on bail in February 2023.
Despite his health struggles, Ssegirinya’s commitment to his constituents remained unwavering. In August 2023, he traveled to the Netherlands for treatment for injuries sustained during his incarceration. After months of in-and-out hospital visits, he remained an active figure in his political party and declared plans to run for re-election in 2026.
