The death of Hon. Ssegirinya Muhammad, famously known as “Mr. Update,” has left an indelible void not only in Uganda’s political sphere but also in the hearts of those who found solace and laughter in his unique brand of politics.
As the Member of Parliament for Kawempe North, Ssegirinya rose to prominence with his unusual mix of humour, wit, and raw political commitment—a combination that endeared him to many, both in his constituency and beyond.
Ssegirinya’s journey to Parliament was nothing short of extraordinary. A trained journalist, he leveraged his storytelling skills and comedic flair to connect with ordinary Ugandans. His sharp wit and keen ability to articulate the struggles of the common man became his trademark.
This combination turned him into a political powerhouse, propelling him from the streets of Kawempe to the corridors of power.
Known for his humor and ability to lighten even the darkest situations, Ssegirinya used comedy not just for entertainment but as a political tool. “I am a comedian who is genuinely willing to serve the people of Kawempe North,” he famously said in 2020 after receiving the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket to contest for the MP position.
This statement summed up his philosophy—using laughter to inspire hope while addressing serious issues affecting his constituents.
Ssegirinya was never one to shy away from making bold, humorous statements that reflected his vibrant personality.
One of his most popular quips came in 2020 during a public dispute between musician Eddy Kenzo and Bobi Wine. “I am now past the level of picking Kenzo at the airport; I have recommended Bobi Young,” he joked, poking fun at the situation while subtly underlining his growing stature in the political and social arena.
During the 2021 general elections, Ssegirinya made his loyalty to NUP President Bobi Wine clear. “Don’t vote for me if you’re not voting Bobi Wine for President,” he declared.
Even after President Museveni was declared the winner, Ssegirinya remained defiant, stating, “I am not going to swear in as MP until Bobi Wine is declared President.” While this statement caused a stir, Ssegirinya eventually took the oath, proving that even in his defiance, he knew how to keep people guessing with his characteristic humor.
In one of his more lighthearted moments, Ssegirinya reacted to accusations linking him to the infamous panga murders in the Greater Masaka region in 2021.
“I can’t even slaughter a chicken; then who can I murder anyone?” he said, leaving the public both amused and sympathetic to his plight.
Ssegirinya’s humor never overshadowed his genuine concern for the people he represented. His ability to combine lightheartedness with serious advocacy endeared him to many, turning him into a relatable figure for his constituents.
For a man who jokingly said he would never swear in as MP without Bobi Wine becoming President, his actions spoke louder than words—he was a servant of the people first and foremost.
As Uganda mourns the loss of this larger-than-life figure, Ssegirinya’s legacy will live on, not just as a politician but as a man who used laughter to inspire and politics to serve.
