Former Iganga District Woman Member of Parliament Olivia Kabaale Kwagala
By Ruth Nanyonga
KAMPALA. Former Iganga District Woman Member of Parliament Olivia Kabaale Kwagala has passed away .
Kwagala, popularly known as ‘’Muliro Mulenge’’ served as legislator for one term between 2011 and 2016.
According to the family Kwagala died on Monday at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala, where she had been admitted for several months.
The deceased joined Parliament in 2011 after defeating then Minister in charge of the Luweero Triangle, Ms Beatrice Zirabamuzaale Magoola. However, she lost the seat to Hailat Kaudha, who also died before completing her term.
Former Iganga District LC5 chairman Ezra Gabula described Kwagala as a development-minded leader who wanted to see the district grow.
According to Mr Gabula, Kwagala attracted several development projects to Iganga aimed at improving the district and driving its growth.
“During her tenure as Woman MP, Kwagala lobbied for the construction of several boreholes to improve access to clean water in Iganga,” Mr Gabula said.
Mr Gabula noted that Kwagala valued unity and cooperation among leaders in Busoga, which she believed were essential in promoting development in the sub-region.
Former Iganga District LC5 chairman Patrick Kayemba said Kwagala had the interests of Iganga at heart and was committed to the district’s development.
Mr Kayemba said that despite losing her parliamentary seat, Kwagala continued to lobby for development projects and opportunities for Iganga residents.
“Even after losing her parliamentary seat, Kwagala continued serving the people. When she later joined Umeme as a staff member, she helped several communities secure electricity connections. This demonstrated her commitment to Iganga and its people,” Mr Kayemba said.
Mr Kayemba added that Kwagala continued to support underprivileged children in Iganga through bursaries, a programme she maintained until her death.
Iganga District NRM chairman Mr Abubakar Walubi said Kwagala had invested in businesses in the district as part of efforts to bring essential services closer to residents.
Mr Walubi said Kwagala’s death was a big loss to the people of Iganga, adding that she would be greatly missed by many.