The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, led tributes in the Parliament to honor the late Dokolo Woman MP, Cecilia Ogwal, who passed away last week in India after battling an illness. Among praised Ogwal for her unwavering commitment to putting Uganda first throughout her dedicated service to the nation.
In a heartfelt tribute, Speaker Among described Cecilia Ogwal as an accomplished legislator who consistently prioritized the interests of the entire nation. Ogwal, known for her outspoken stance, had been receiving medical treatment in India at the time of her demise.
“She spoke eloquently for all Ugandans and not just for the people of Dokolo or for her political party; it was about Uganda first and the next would follow,” said Speaker Among, emphasizing Ogwal's commitment to a united and inclusive Uganda.
The Speaker extended gratitude to the public for the outpouring of tributes, recognizing that Ogwal's passing has brought to light the genuine spirit of goodness. She expressed that Ogwal's life was a testament to righteousness and urged all Ugandans to emulate the qualities of dignity, respect, and equality that the late legislator embodied.
“We need to serve humanity with dignity, respect, equality, and these are the attributes that Ogwal had in her life. Ogwal was a true Christian; she believed in prayer. When she would come to you and say, 'Let us pray for one minute,' she would pray for 30 minutes. She always put God first in whatever she did," the Speaker affirmed.
Among also conveyed her condolences to the bereaved family and encouraged them to stand strong, continuing the legacy left behind by the late MP. She described Ogwal as an advocate for a just and fair society, highlighting her irreplaceable role in fostering balanced debates within the Parliament.
“Ogwal was a true icon who will be dearly missed by this House. When I would like to have a balanced debate, I would just look on my left, and I am wondering, how will I be looking on my left? Who is that person that can always come and will not talk politics but would talk for this country?" remarked the Speaker.
The remains of Cecilia Ogwal were received on Monday at Entebbe International Airport by the Speaker of Parliament, family members, and fellow MPs. A funeral service is scheduled for January 27, 2024, at her ancestral home in Dog Gudu Cell, Alito Town Council, Kole district, where she will be laid to rest. The entire nation mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant and a voice for the people.
