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Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirnya was pronounced brained dead on Thursday morning in Kampala, following a long and debilitating spell of health complications.
The opposition NUP MP was admitted to Rubaga Hospital a few days ago after his health deteriorated, according to Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi.
“He was brought here quietly because the doctors advised against visits by the public to avoid infections,” said Ssenyonyi.
“Doctors told us that most of his body organs had started to shut down.”
Genesis of ill-health
Hon Ssegirinya battled a myriad of health issues dating back to early 2022, which necessitated multiple hospitalisations both domestically and internationally.
In September 2021, Ssegirinya was arrested and detained in Kitalya Maximum Security Prison on charges including murder and attempted murder.
He was accused along with a fellow legislator Allan Ssewanyana of involvement in the string of murders that took place in the Greater Masaka region at the time.
During his incarceration, he reportedly developed several health complications, including what was later described as skin cancer, lung infections, and liver swellings.
These conditions were exacerbated by the prison environment, leading to a deterioration in his overall health.
Treatment Abroad
Following his release on bail in February 2023, Ssegirinya sought medical treatment abroad.
He was admitted to the Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra Hospital in the Netherlands, where he underwent treatment for his ailments.
After several months, he was discharged and returned to Uganda in September 2023.
Terminal illness
Upon his return, he expressed gratitude for the support he received and indicated that he was feeling better, though he acknowledged the need for ongoing medical supervision.
The MP, however, hinted at the terminal nature of his illness, revealing in the interview at Entebbe Airport that he did not have a long time to live
Treatment in Kenya
Despite the treatment received in the Netherlands, Ssegirinya's health issues persisted. In November 2023, the MP's health worsened once again and he was admitted to Nsambya Hospital. There, he was visited by among others the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Anitah Among.
In early 2024, he was admitted to the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, for further medical care.
He spent approximately six months at the facility, receiving treatment for his conditions.
In June 2024, he was discharged from the hospital. In a video message shared on social media, Ssegirinya, appearing visibly frail, expressed his intention to return home and continue his recovery.
His personal assistant, Alex Luwemba, mentioned that doctors had advised a three-month period of bed rest under medical supervision before resuming any work-related activities.
In July last year, Ssegirinya's family talked of plans to fly him out to India for further treatment.
“We are currently processing the papers to go to India,” announced Mr Alex Luswa Luwemba, the MP’s Personal Assistant.
Luwemba said although Ssegirinya was discharged after making significant improvement, he was still far from recovery.
Clash with Parliament
Throughout his health ordeal, Ssegirinya has been vocal about the challenges he faced in securing medical treatment.
He criticised the Ugandan Parliament for what he perceived as neglect in covering his medical expenses, stating that his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), had to step in to settle his bills.
He noted that, according to the constitution, it was Parliament's responsibility to cater to his medical needs.
The Parliament through its spokesperson Mr Obore however, said Ssegirinya failed to officially inform the Medical Board before flying out of the country.
“Parliament cannot neglect any MP when they have health complications. There is already an insurance scheme for each member and immediate family,” he said.
“However, for any treatment outside the country, parliament only foots the medical bills upon clearance by the Medical Board as provided in law.”
In October 2024, Ssegirinya announced plans to return to active politics, expressing a desire to resume his duties as a legislator.
He acknowledged the support from his constituents and party members during his health struggles and indicated readiness to continue serving the people of Kawempe North.