Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal, a
devoted member of Parliament since 1996, died this morning at the age of 77
from cancer. Her loss is mourned by the Ugandan political community.
Throughout her political
career, Ogwal—often referred to as the “Iron Lady”—was acknowledged for her
unflinching criticism of the dictatorship and government.
There is a significant legacy
of Cecilia Ogwal in Ugandan politics. In addition to serving as the Member of
Parliament for Lira from 1996 to 2005, she was a key member of the Constituent
Assembly delegation.
She continued her political
career by strengthening her ties to the Uganda People's Congress (UPC) and,
following a rift with the party, joining the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
She ran for the position of Woman MP for the Dokolo District in 2006 and was
elected.
Ogwal has been praised by the
Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Uganda for his pivotal role in directing and
molding the country's political landscape. Her unafraid criticism and
dedication to democratic values had a long-lasting effect on the political
dialogue in the nation.
In addition to her political
accomplishments, 23-year-old Cecilia Ogwal won the title of Miss Uganda in
1969.
She was a finalist for a
Bachelor of Commerce at East African University in Nairobi at the time. Her
varied achievements highlight the depth of her influence and her complex
personality.
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