Tears and Tributes as Former Nakasongola MP Margaret Komuhangi Is Laid to Rest

The family of the late Margaret Komuhangi struggled to bid her farewell in an emotional ceremony held at her husband Farouk Bagira’s home.

Nakasongola District came to a standstill as hundreds of mourners, including government officials led by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Members of Parliament, and local residents, gathered in Walusi Migeera Town Council to pay their last respects to the former Nakasongola Woman MP.

Komuhangi’s second-born child, Alkar Farouk, recounted her mother’s heartbreaking battle with pancreatic cancer, which began in August 2024. Initially experiencing stomach pain that progressed into severe vomiting, the family suspected ulcers or poisoning due to her political background. They sought treatment in Kampala hospitals, including Nakasero Hospital.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja paid her respects.

Doctors later identified a tumor on her bile duct and pancreas, recommending treatment in India. However, surgery was deemed unfeasible due to the tumor's delicate location. Komuhangi underwent chemotherapy, but her health deteriorated. Alkar tearfully described her mother’s final moments last Wednesday, when she was found unresponsive and passed away in the hospital on Thursday night.

In a message delivered by Prime Minister Nabbanja, President Museveni praised Komuhangi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and her advocacy for women’s and girls’ rights.

“She championed the cause of equal rights and opportunities for women and the girl child. She will be remembered as an icon of empowerment and economic transformation in Uganda,” Museveni said.

The President contributed Shs25 million towards Komuhangi’s send-off.

Rose Namayanja, Deputy Secretary General of the NRM Secretariat, highlighted Komuhangi’s significant contributions to Nakasongola, particularly in improving roads, water supply, and healthcare facilities.

Nakasongola MP Bernard Sekyanzi called on the government to honor Komuhangi’s legacy by upgrading Molonzi Health Center II to a Health Centre III, a cause she passionately advocated for.

Send-off prayers, led by Rev. Canon Samuel Saka, Archdeacon of Nakasongola Deaconry under Luwero Diocese, encouraged Komuhangi’s children to remain steadfast in their faith during this difficult time.

The ceremony concluded at 5 p.m., with mourners paying heartfelt tributes, remembering Komuhangi as a fearless advocate for justice and equality.

Margaret Komuhangi’s legacy will remain deeply rooted in the hearts of the people of Nakasongola and beyond.