In a solemn tribute to the Late Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, Parliament will hold a Special Sitting on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, to honor her legacy and contributions.
Nyirabashitsi, the District Woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro and Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Her loss has reverberated across the nation, as she was a strong advocate for peace and veteran affairs, and a beloved leader within her community
This tribute provides not only a moment for reflection on the life and achievements of Hon. Nyirabashitsi but also a reminder of her long-standing dedication to the defense of Uganda’s veterans and her work advocating for women’s empowerment.
As a Member of Parliament since 2016 and a key figure in national defense policy, Nyirabashitsi’s impact on Uganda’s political landscape will be highlighted in the session, with President Yoweri Museveni personally paying his respects.
The late Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi was known for her tireless commitment to her constituents in Kisoro and her unwavering dedication to national service, particularly in her role as Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs.
Her passing leaves a notable void in Uganda’s leadership, particularly in the sectors of defense and women’s rights, where she championed inclusion and equitable representation.
The Special Sitting of Parliament will commence at 2:00 p.m., following the arrival of Nyirabashitsi’s body at Parliament for viewing at noon.
The motion to pay tribute to her will be moved by fellow Members of Parliament, many of whom worked closely with her on critical national issues.
At 5:30 p.m., the President of Uganda, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, will personally pay his last respects in a solemn ceremony held in the South Wing Parking lot of Parliament. Museveni, who had appointed Nyirabashitsi to the key position of Minister of State for Defence, praised her dedication to the country and her ability to navigate the complexities of national security and veterans’ issues with wisdom and integrity.
Her leadership, according to the President, was marked by her deep understanding of Uganda’s security challenges and her commitment to ensuring that veterans received the support they deserved after serving the nation.
