Leaders and the public at large are paying tribute to Dokolo District Woman Member of Parliament Cecilia Ogwal, who died this morning at the age of 77. She reportedly succumbed to cancer in a hospital in India.
Many describe Ogwal as an outspoken politician who was fearless when it came to standing up for her rights, values, and beliefs.
Former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza describes her as a great adviser with unfiltered opinions.
“Blessed to have had your wise advice, unfiltered opinions, and love. We send our sincere condolences to your spouse Mr. Lameck Ogwal, your family, friends, and the people of Lango,” she said.
Emmanuel Dombo, the NRM Secretariat Director of Communication, believes that Ogwal was a true patriot.
“She never spoke ill about Uganda or its leaders while on foreign trips. May Her Soul Rest in Peace,” he said.
Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among eulogized her as a great mother, mentor, and role model.
Gen Katumba Wamala, the Minister for Works and Transport, says the country has lost a political icon.
“A lady who loved her country with passion. A nationalist who looked beyond party colours when addressing national issues whether locally or while in international fora. We have lost a political icon!” he said.
Born on June 12, 1946, Cecilia Ogwal was a go-getter kind of person from an early age and always strived to achieve and excel in life.
She graduated from the University of East Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1970 at the age of 24, and that set the pace for her brilliant journey ahead. She holds several certificates in leadership, management, and human rights fields from various institutions.
The former Miss Uganda (she was Miss Uganda in 1969) was a shrewd businesswoman, politician, woman activist, human rights defender, and management consultant who nurtured hundreds of people throughout her life. The outspoken politician, nicknamed ‘the lioness,’ was fearless when it came to standing up for her rights, values, and beliefs.
She was a high-ranking UPC official until 2004 when internal fights escalated, and in 2011, she stood on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party ticket for the Dokolo Woman MP seat, which she held until her death.
Ogwal, who succumbed to cancer-related illnesses in India, is survived by seven children, grandchildren, and several adopted children.