By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-01-29 07:38:45
At the funeral of former Dokolo Woman MP Cecilia Barbara Imat Atim Ogwal Atat, Vice President Jessica Alupo laid a wreath on her casket. Glowing tributes were paid to Ogwal as she was laid to rest at her home in Dog-gudu cell, Alito town council in Kole district. The executive director of Uganda Cancer Institute, Dr. Jackson Orem, revealed that she was first diagnosed with cancer of the colon, which was later found to be arising from the pancreas. Despite being handled well, she developed complications during her treatment abroad, leading to her untimely death. Ogwal was referred to India for additional tests which could not be conducted in Uganda due to a lack of reagents. The funeral was attended by dignitaries from within and beyond the boundaries of Uganda.
Vice President Jessica Alupo Epel, representing President Yoweri Museveni, commended Ogwal for her dedication to serving the country and her role as a parliamentarian. She described Ogwal as a strong advocate for women and the girl child and praised her for challenging traditional injustices and prejudices against women. Alupo acknowledged Ogwal’s significant contributions to national development and women’s empowerment, and highlighted her democratic principles which transcended her opposition party affiliation.
Deputy speaker Thomas Tayebwa recalled how Ogwal had mentored him and others in parliament, praising her leadership and calling for her to be given a state burial. He also commended Mzee Lameck Ogwal for supporting his wife’s political journey and urged men to learn from his example. Patrick Oboi Amuriat, the FDC party president, called on the government to prioritize functional health facilities for all Ugandans and appealed for a peaceful completion of the by-election in Dokolo.
The funeral ceremony was a platform for dignitaries to reflect on and honor Ogwal’s life and legacy. Various speakers expressed their gratitude for her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, underscoring the impact she had on the community and the importance of continuing her work. The loss of Cecilia Barbara Imat Atim Ogwal Atat was deeply felt by all those who knew her, and her memory will continue to inspire and guide the people she touched.
