By Sarah Achen Kibisi.
patlis2000@yahoo.com
Uganda Parliament has applauded the fallen Queen Elizabeth II for being humble, exemplary and an icon of peace.
This was during a special session this month chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Thomas Tayebwa where legislators pay their tributes to Her Majesty.
Elizabeth II was Queen of the United Kingdom and head of the Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until her death in 2022. She was queen regnant of 32 sovereign states during her lifetime and 15 at the time of her death.
Uganda Prime Minister Hon. Robinah Nabbanja moved a motion for a resolution of Parliament to pay tribute to the Late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her extraordinary contribution and exemplary leadership to the commonwealth.
According to Hon. Nabbanja, Queen Elizabeth II visited Uganda twice. Her Majesty first visited Uganda on 28th to 30th April 1954 and again on 21st to 24th November 2007 to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.
In response to her motion, speaking on behalf of the Leader of Opposition, Hon Muwanga Kivumbi eulogized Queen Elizabeth II as someone who had a remarkable influence on how the world is run.
“The Queen superintended smooth transitions of governments which are worth emulating. She oversaw successful governments led by 15 different Prime Ministers” Hon Muwanga Kivumbi.
Lamwo district woman MP, Hon. Nancy Acora called on women leaders to emulate the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth especially her unique sense of style. She said that the Speaker Hon. Anita Among is already depicting the fallen Queen’s style and its commendable.
Bunya South MP, Hon. Iddi Isabirye said they would always remember Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as a unifier, a great leader who did great things in the Commonwealth countries.
Aswa County MP, Hon. Simon Wokorach asked the institution of Parliament to send a delegation from Parliament to the UK to pay tribute to the Late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Mawokota district Woman MP, Hon. Gorreth Namugga Gorreth noted that respect for the environment is no longer an option but a genuine responsibility for every Ugandan. “Preserve the dignity of the of Pearl Africa”, she said..
Youth Northern MP, Hon. Boniface Okot also called upon leaders to consider mentorship of young people in memory of Queen Elizabeth II who rose to the throne at the young age of 25.
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II rose to the throne at the age of 15. This is a lesson that we need to continue grooming young people at the table of decision making,” he said.
Kasilo county MP, Elijah Okupa commended the late Queen Elizabeth II for shaping the fashion world. “Even at her age you saw how well dressed she was and it was a message to everyone,” he said.
Pakwach woman MP, Hon. Avur Pacuto asked the government to restore and rehabilitate the fish handling plant in Dei sub-county in Pakwach district in memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
State Minister for Works, Hon Musa Ecweru said he was privileged to be in the House when Queen Elizabeth II visited Uganda. He said:” She was a lady with dignity, a mother and a personality who was in tandem with the changes that took place over the years.
Insingiro South MP, Hon. Alex Byarugaba explained that Queen Elizabeth II was always buoyant and had a great sense of humour and very courageous woman during turbulent times. “She did not run away from London during the Second World War ,” he said.
“We get to learn from the Queen that we can co-exist with a monarchy while having a Republic at the same time. There should not be any grey areas in terms of our roles,” said Otuke Constituency MP, Hon. Paul Omara added.
Soroti City West, Hon Jonathan Ebwalu said the Queen was the epitome of the British culture and civilization.” I want to appeal to our people that if you are occupying any office, you must create a conducive environment that if you fall like the Queen then the country must move on,” he said.
State Minister for Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar eulogized Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as an inspiration to the women in leadership, an environmentalist, and someone who loved nature■
