President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised fallen MP Cecilia Ogwal describing her as an accomplished woman whose legacy on Uganda’s democratization process and women’s emancipation shall live for centuries to come.
The head of state says much as she subscribed to the opposition, her democratic principles were cross-cutting, and that her opinions meant good for all Ugandans.
“She was a woman of many accomplishments. Parliament has indeed lost a vocal outspoken member and role model who will be greatly missed” Gen. Museveni said in his condolence message delivered by his Second-in-Command Maj. Jessica Alupo at the burial of the late legislator.
Museveni said that when the NRM party opened space for all women through its deliberate policies to lift them up, the (now) late Cecilia Ogwal maximally used this opportunity to serve her country diligently.
The president said Uganda has been privileged to associate and work with such a resourceful person of Cecilia’s caliber and vision.
“She has left a rich legacy as an honest, selfless, hardworking leader, a Pan-Africanist, and an advocate,” the CiC said.
HER ACCOMPLISHMENTS
According to the President, the Late Hon. Cecilia Ogwal will be remembered for her great contribution towards national development with a greater role in being an advocate for women and the girl child.
He said through her determination and discipline, Cecilia managed to challenge traditional injustices and prejudices against women, earning herself a reputation of being an icon of women’s empowerment and emancipation.
Museveni noted that during her tenure as a Woman Member of Parliament, she has served on various government-established committees and structures. Among these include that of the parliamentary commission, took part in the drafting of the constitution of Uganda, founder member of the Housing Finance Bank, and Chairperson Uganda Development Bank among others.
“Death has robbed the family of a pillar and indeed, the entire nation of a very hardworking citizen, politician, and diplomat,” he said.
NRM TO PUSH AHEAD WITH IDEALS OF UNITY
The head of state reiterated that NRM is the only party that has prioritized women as a resource capable of making a significant contribution to national development and stability.
He said his government will continue to stand as a vanguard of justice, peace, security, democracy and reconciliation.
“The ideals of Anti-sectarianism, unity, liberation and transformation shall always guide our mission for a prosperous Uganda,” Museveni reaffirmed.
He said while the country mourns Hon.Cecilia Ogwal’s death, we thank God for the life she shared with us.
On behalf of government, NRM and on his own behalf, the president extended his condolences to Mzee Lameck Ogwal, all her children, relatives, the people of Lango and the entire nation.
“My prayers and thoughts are with the family at this trying moment. May the Almighty God grant you the courage and fortitude to go through this moment of loss and sorrow” he said and wished the late Cecilia to rest in eternal peace.
