Scholar Jim Spire Ssentongo has expressed deep sorrow following the sudden death of Member of Parliament Helen Nakimuli, describing her as a humble and promising leader whose political journey was still unfolding.
In a moving reflection shared after learning of her passing, Ssentongo revealed that he had earlier reached out to National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya to request Nakimuli’s contact, intending to thank her for what he termed a bold and inspiring public speech he had recently watched. He said he was later informed that she had died.
Ssentongo recounted that he first met Nakimuli during an Alternative Budget reading function at Parliament.
He said he was seated at the back, as he often prefers, when Nakimuli approached him respectfully, greeted him in Luganda while kneeling, and requested that he move to the front row.
Despite his initial reluctance, Ssentongo noted that she insisted politely and returned multiple times urging him to accept the front seat.
He eventually agreed, unaware at the time that she was the master of ceremonies for the event.
He further recalled that Nakimuli later approached him again and asked him to address the gathering, a request he declined.
According to him, her persistence was marked by respect and humility, traits he said were striking given her position as a Member of Parliament.
“That was the first time I got to know her, and I was so impressed by her humility—especially when I later learnt that she was an MP,” Ssentong said.
He added that Nakimuli’s conduct reflected a rare level of grounded leadership and respect for others, especially in public service spaces often defined by hierarchy and status.
Nakimuli’s death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from leaders, scholars, and political observers who describe her as a rising voice in Ugandan politics whose potential was only beginning to emerge. She was 40 years old.
Ssentongo noted that life remains unpredictable, adding that some moments are difficult to understand and are instead carried with reflection as people continue their own journeys.