Mr. Update” Leaves Legacy of Political Activism, Dedication to Kawempe North

Kampala, Uganda — Muhammad Ssegirinya, the Member of Parliament representing Kawempe North, popularly known as “Mr. Update,” is dead. The vocal and often controversial legislator died this morning at Rubaga Hospital, sources close to the family have confirmed, bringing to an end a life dogged by as much triumph as controversy.

Born in 1988 in Butale, Kadugala, Masaka District, Muhammad Ssegirinya was born as Richard Ssegirinya but started his political life with an unending determination. His conversion from Roman Catholic to Islam saw him change his name to Muhammad, which has been a symbol of his ability to change and grow.

Early Political Struggles

In 2011, Ssegirinya joined politics, standing for the Kawempe North parliamentary seat, a race he lost. This did not deter him but instead overgrew his appetite to serve the people of Kawempe North. Five years later, in 2016, he tried his luck again, this time contesting in the FDC primaries. Though he didn’t secure the nomination, Ssegirinya’s persistence paid off when he was elected Lord Councillor for KCCA, representing Kawempe North.

Rising to Prominence

This long-cherished dream was to be fulfilled when, in 2021, he was declared winner of the Kawempe North parliamentary seat on the National Unity Platform ticket, defeating nine other contestants, among them incumbent Abdulatif Ssebagala Ssengendo and former Deputy Lord Mayor Sulaiman Kidandala. So far, this is the height of his political life, which had cemented his reputation as a man of the people.

Legal Troubles and Imprisonment

But his journey had been a bumpy ride since the inauguration of his service in the assembly. In September 2021, Ssegirinya faced serious accusations over alleged rebel activities in the Greater Masaka region. Among the several charges levied against him were those of murder and attempted murder. This sent him to the bars, confined to Kitalya Maximum Security Prison for about 17 months. All through his being in confinement, the opposition politician vowed he would be uncompromising in his demand for justice and democracy.
Bailed out of prison in February 2023, Ssegirinya had dramatically deteriorated in health due to alleged torture during his incarceration. In August 2023, he traveled to the Netherlands in pursuit of medical care at Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra. He was later admitted to Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, where he was undergoing intensive treatment for six months.

Despite his health challenges, Ssegirinya’s resilience shone through. Upon his discharge in June 2024, he announced a three-month rest period under medical supervision. By August 2024, he had declared his intentions to stand for re-election for the Kawempe North parliamentary seat in 2026, a sure sign of continued commitment to the people.

A Legacy of Engagement

Muhammad Ssegirinya was not only a politician but a voice for the voiceless and a symbol of hope to many. He christened himself “Mr. Update” due to his dynamism on social media: pinning updates on political and social issues on his pages. He is humorous, relatable, and his posts appeal to both his supporters and critics as one of the most recognizable faces in Ugandan politics.

The Final Chapter: On January 9, 2025, Ssegirinya finally called it a day. His demise has left a void in the political landscape in Kawempe North and Uganda at large. Various eulogies have streamed from all corners of the country for him, many praise for his service to his people through thick and thin.

As the country mourns the demise of Muhammad Ssegirinya, the story of his life speaks of resilience, determination, and the almighty power of grassroots activism. He is no more, but his spirit, known to Ugandans as “Mr. Update” and champion of the people, shall continue to inspire future generations.