A somber crowd of mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to Alex Kayanja Ssekandi, the son of Vice President Emeritus Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, who passed away at the age of 37 due to multiple organ failure at Lubaga Hospital.
President Museveni, unable to attend in person, was represented by Vice President Jessica Alupo. In a heartfelt statement, the President expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “I wish to extend, on behalf of my family, the Government, the NRM Party, and the entire nation, heartfelt condolences and sympathies to H.E Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi and the entire family upon the loss of a dear son. My family and I stand with you in prayer during this trying moment. May the Almighty God grant you the fortitude and courage to endure this moment of grief and loss.”
He continued, “I pray that you find solace and comfort in the Christian affirmation, which says that death is not the end for believers.” The President drew from the Bible, referencing 1 Thessalonians, chapter 4, verses 13-14, which states, “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.”
He concluded with a message of faith, “The promise of eternal life is the anchor of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; we are destined for eternity.”
Visibly shaken, H.E. Ssekandi spoke of losing “an advisor, a best friend, the only son.” Margaret Ssekandi, his mother, shared that Alex had brought joy and laughter into their lives. “He was a source of joy and laughter,” she reminisced.
Before the funeral, a mass was led by Dominic Sengooba, the Vicar General of Masaka Diocese, offering spiritual solace to the grieving assembly.
The ceremony attracted numerous dignitaries, including representatives from central Buganda, former and current political leaders, and many other distinguished guests.
In a gesture of support, President Museveni contributed UGX10 million towards the funeral expenses.