Koboko, Uganda – The country is mourning the death of former Koboko Woman Member of Parliament, Margaret Baba Diri, who died on January 9 in Kawempe, Kampala. President Yoweri Museveni eulogized her as a dedicated leader, social worker, and activist who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of many Ugandans.

In a condolence message by the Vice President Jessica Alupo to the thousands of mourners in Koboko District, Mr. Museveni expressed sadness following the loss of Baba Diri, lauding the commitment and incomparable service that she gave the country during her over 25-year service in Parliament.

Death has robbed the family of a pillar and the entire nation of a very hardworking citizen. She was an educator, social worker, politician, and activist,” Museveni said.

A Life of Service and Resilience

The late Baba Diri was an assertive advocate for persons with disabilities. She never allowed her disability to stand in the way of representing the people of Koboko and persons with disabilities in Parliament. She was a gender development officer at the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda-NUDIPU, very active in championing the rights of persons living with disabilities.

Museveni hailed her resilience, saying she was an ardent advocate for equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Uganda.

“Despite her challenges, she beat all odds to represent her people. She was a steadfast advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities and worked to improve their opportunities,” he said.

He reassured the people of Koboko and the entire disability community that they had lost a great representative.

A Strong Advocate for Human Rights

Museveni, while speaking during the funeral service, reminded the mourners that the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda guarantees all citizens human rights and freedoms, including persons with disabilities.

These rights include those to life, dignity, equal treatment, and non-discrimination. We must continue observing that in government services, vulnerable people are given special attention,” he said.

He emphasized that it is important people with disabilities are empowered for the country’s development.

“We cannot break the cycle of poverty without addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and enabling them to contribute to the country’s progress,” he noted.

Museveni also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, recognizing Baba Diri’s efforts in promoting girl-child education and women’s rights.

“She will always be remembered for her love for girl-child education and women’s empowerment,” he added.

A Friend and Mentor to Many

Vice President Jessica Alupo, who was among the mourners, described Baba Diri as a mentor and a friend.

When I was Minister for Youth Affairs, I was still relatively young, and she would always guide me on how to navigate politics. I am privileged to have learned from her,” Alupo said.

She called on young women to emulate Baba Diri by living a life of integrity, discipline, and service to the community.

“Those who listened to her advice have always followed the right path—zero tolerance for corruption and a passion for serving the people,” Alupo said.

She urged Baba Diri’s children to remain united and uphold their mother’s legacy.

A Legacy That Lives On

The Bishop of Arua Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sabino Odoki, led the funeral mass, urging the family to stay together in honor of Baba Diri’s wishes.

Your mother wished the best for everyone. Stay united and carry forward her legacy of kindness and service,” the bishop said.

Minister for Disability Affairs, Hellen Asamo, also mourned Baba Diri, recalling her words of encouragement and support.

“Baba Diri always preached love and unity. Thanks to her efforts, Koboko got its first tarmacked road, a municipality, and a modern market,” Asamo said.

She thanked President Museveni for embracing an inclusive government that saw the late Baba Diri and many other persons with disabilities serve their country.

Government Plans for West Nile

The Vice President also used the funeral to assure the people of West Nile that the government is planning to rehabilitate and upgrade roads in the region. She noted that many roads are in bad shape and promised government intervention.

As Uganda bids the final farewell to Margaret Baba Diri, memories of her as a dedicated leader, advocate, and mentor will forever be etched. She will also be remembered for her unwavering commitment and dedication to serving the people of Koboko, persons with disabilities, and women and girls in general across the country.