Dokolo Woman Member of Parliament, Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal, sadly passed away at 77 years after a brave battle with cancer.
Cecilia Ogwal, also known as a former Miss Uganda, has been an iconic figure in Ugandan politics, dedicating her life to public service since 1996. As a long-serving Member of Parliament, she actively participated in various political issues and played a crucial role as a respected Opposition MP.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, praised Cecilia for her invaluable guidance and mentorship, particularly in shaping local leaders. Furthermore, he emphasized her tireless efforts in advocating for global equity, where the voice of the Global South resonated, especially within the OACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly.
Hon. Paul Omara, representing Otuke County Lira District, expressed his deepest condolences, acknowledging Cecilia Ogwal as a true icon. Her remarkable legacy and significant impact on Ugandan politics will be remembered by all.
In addition to her role as an MP, Cecilia Ogwal served as a member of the Parliamentary Committee of Physical Infrastructure, overseeing policy matters related to lands, housing, and urban development. Additionally, she contributed as a member of the budget committee.
At the time of her passing, Cecilia Ogwal was affiliated with the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party. Previously, she held a high-ranking position in the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) Party until 2004. During this time, she served as the Acting Secretary General of the UPC from 1985 to 1992.
Notably, in 1994, Cecilia Ogwal was part of the Constituent Assembly responsible for drafting and publicizing the 1995 Ugandan Constitution. That same year, she became the Member of Parliament representing Lira Municipality. Subsequently, she lost her parliamentary seat to Jimmy Akena, the son of UPC founder Milton Obote. However, in 2011, she successfully contested and won the Women’s Representative seat for the newly created Dokolo District.
Cecilia Ogwal was born on June 12, 1946, in Dokolo District, Northern Uganda. At the age of 23, she participated in the Miss Uganda Pageant in 1969. In 1970, she married Lameck Ogwal, and together they were blessed with seven children while also adopting several others
The nation mourns the loss of a beloved mother, mentor, and role model. Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, described Cecilia Ogwal as an irreplaceable figure. Ugandans eagerly await further details regarding her final send-off as they pay their respects to this exceptional leader.
