The family of the late Jolly Mugisha, the former Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has expressed their displeasure with the party for allegedly attempting to exploit her funeral for political gain.
This situation has escalated to the point where the family requested police intervention to prevent NUP from using the Nyamityobora Grounds in Mbarara for a gathering, emphasizing their need for privacy and time to mourn Jolly’s passing, which occurred on Monday at Mbarara Referral Hospital after she reportedly faced financial denial from NUP for treatment abroad.
The family expressed frustration over NUP’s apparent opportunism, suggesting that their actions are more about creating headlines than honoring Jolly’s memory.
A close family member, Alice Nahabwe, criticized NUP’s pattern of taking over funerals, calling it “awful” during times of grief and questioning why they did not mobilize support for Jolly while she was ill.
”Funny, its now they come out to celebrate the life of jolly Nahabwe, said
She added on to say that NUP’s opportunism is more about creating headlines than honoring Jolly’s memory.
Maria Matembe, a close family friend, voiced strong criticism of NUP, labeling it a “horrible party” and recounting her advice to Jolly against participating in its activities due to her lack of belief in its leadership, specifically Bobi Wine.
Matembe mourned Jolly’s untimely death, stating that she was a remarkable individual who could have made significant contributions as a Member of Parliament for Mbarara had she remained active in NRM politics after she left the seat in 2006.
Matembe reflected on their close bond, stating, “I met Jolly Mugisha when she had lost her husband, and we have since become sisters.”
As they go through their grief, the Mugisha family calls for respect and dignity during this difficult time, emphasizing that funerals should remain spaces for mourning rather than political platforms.