During press briefing today at Uganda House in Kampala, the Uganda People Congress (UPC) party spokesperson, Sharon Arach Oyat, began by expressing deep concern over the heightened risk of terrorism that loomed over the country, particularly in the Rwenzori sub-region. Tragically, the recent massacre of students at Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese and the brutal murder of two tourists and a Ugandan national had sent shockwaves throughout the nation.
Arach emphasized that the security concerns extended beyond the Rwenzori region, affecting various areas and leading to the loss of innocent lives and the displacement of many. In response to these challenges, UPC called upon the Government of Uganda and its security agencies to prioritize the safety and security of all Ugandans. Furthermore, the party advocated for dialogue and reconciliation in affected regions to restore stability.
Amid this plea for unity and stability, the press statement took a moment to convey heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Hon. Henry Kyemba, who had tragically passed away on the 19th of October, 2023. Hon. Kyemba had an illustrious history of service, having served the first UPC-led government in various capacities, including as an Assistant Private Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr. Apolo Milton Obote and later as Principal Private Secretary to President Dr. A. M. Obote.
Notably, he was a part of Uganda’s government delegation to the Commonwealth Summit in Singapore in 1971, where they faced the shocking experience of Idi Amin’s coup. Following this, some chose to return home, while others joined the anti-Idi Amin struggle, ultimately forming the Kikosi Maluum (KM), a liberation army based in Owiny Kibul, Southern Sudan.
Hon. Kyemba’s story continued as he served under Idi Amin’s Military Government in various roles, including as Minister of Culture and Minister of Health. His decision to go into exile and his authorship of the book “The State of Blood In Uganda” greatly contributed to understanding the operations of Idi Amin’s state apparatus.
In a testament to his dedication to public service, Hon. Henry Kyemba also served in the NRA/M government as a Minister of State for Agriculture and later as Minister for Presidency. He ventured into elective politics, representing Jinja West in the Constituency Assembly (CA) and the National Resistance Council (NRC).
During the press conference the party acknowledged the demanding journey faced by those who laid the foundation of modern Uganda during its post-independence period. Hon. Henry Kyemba’s legacy was celebrated as part of this esteemed group. His state burial was scheduled for Thursday, the 26th of October, 2023, in Jinja, Bugembe Town Council.
UPC also has mourned the untimely passing of another stalwart, Dr. Tumwesigye Jotham, in Mbarara on the 23rd of October, 2023. Dr. Tumwesigye’s profound contributions to the party’s growth and the community were recognized and cherished. His loss was deeply felt not only by UPC but by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In a day filled with both remembrance and a call for unity, the story of Uganda’s struggle for stability intertwined with the passing of a prominent figure, Hon. Henry Kyemba, and the loss of Dr. Tumwesigye Jotham.
Comments are closed.