Parliament has held a pre-funeral service for the former District Woman Representative for Kisoro, Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, who died on Saturday, 07 September 2024 in Kampala.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who led the service acknowledged the pain felt by the family and the nation.
“Humanly speaking, we are saddened by the untimely death of our sister Sarah. But we cannot question God’s plan. As it says in Revelation 21:4, ‘God shall wipe away all tears, and there shall be no more death, sorrow, nor crying.’ Sarah is now at peace, and we trust she is in the hands of the Lord,” he said.
He also recalled Nyirabashitsi’s humility and dedication to the church. “She was always a humble worshiper, sitting quietly in the corner at All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala. Unlike many, she never sought recognition but served faithfully.”
The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nyirabashitsi, who also served as the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Defence) from April 2024.
Prior, she served as Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development (Youth and Children Affairs) from June 2021.
“Sarah was that person who loved deeply and would do anything to be there for you. She was more of a friend than just a colleague. Parliament and the people of Kisoro have lost a remarkable woman,” she said.
Among pledged continued support to Nyirabashitsi’s family. “As Members of Parliament, we will stand with her family, especially her son, who is still in school. Sarah’s legacy must live on,” she said.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja conveyed the President’s condolences.
Nabbanja reflected on Nyirabashitsi’s profound impact as a leader, describing her as a “devoted servant of God” and a passionate advocate for the welfare of children.
Richard Todwong, the Secretary-General of the National Resistance Movement Party (NRM), delivered a tribute, reflecting on her significant contributions both to the party and her community.
Todwong recalled a pivotal moment during a by-election in Kisoro, where Nyirabashitsi’s stance on unity stood out.
He said Kisoro was divided in terms of religion, tribes, and other small things and he asked where Mateke aligned in these divides, her response, however, took him by surprise.
“She openly told me, ‘Secretary-General, I do not belong to tribes. I belong to the party and the Government. All these tribes will continue to confuse our people,” he said.
He said Nyirabashitsi, along with her sister, campaigned tirelessly against forces seeking to divide Kisoro along ethnic and tribal lines.
Todwong urged all leaders to take time for self-care and spiritual connection.
Parliament will hold a special session on Tuesday, 10 September 2024 to pay tribute the fallen legislator. Prior to the sitting, there will be funeral service at All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala at 8:00a.m.
Nyirabashitsi, who was first elected to 9th Parliament (2011-2016) and again in 2021 [11th Parliament], will be buried on Thursday, 12 September 2024 in Kisoro.
She is survived by a son.