By Eye Media Reporter | Mukono
Mukono, Uganda – The home of Haji Faruk Kirunda, the Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilisation and Deputy NRM Spokesperson, was on Friday filled with emotion, prayers, and reflection as family, friends, and national leaders gathered in Ntawo, Mukono Municipality to commemorate the life of his late wife, Gladys Aliyinza, who died in a tragic accident on 27th June 2024 in Luuka District.
The memorial, held exactly a year since her passing, brought together high-profile guests, including the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, RDCs from across the country, religious leaders, and community mobilisers, all united in paying tribute to a woman remembered for her warmth, resilience, and service to the people.
Dr. Aceng, who was the Chief Guest, delivered a powerful and emotional message.
“We are here to remember our dear sister, friend, mother and wife, Gladys. It is now one year since she passed on. I thank Haji Faruk for taking this in graciously. He is moving on well,” she said, commending him for being a “strong man” and “a good father” to his children.
She further appreciated Annet Nabirye, sister to the late Aliyinza and now Luuka Woman MP hopeful, for stepping into her sister’s shoes.
“Faruk, thank you for supporting Annet’s political aspirations. Gladys’ legacy lives on,” the Minister added.
Dr. Aceng also hailed President Yoweri Museveni for trusting Haji Kirunda with a sensitive role in government, describing him as “a man of integrity” and “a hardworking patriot.”
In a touching testimony, Haji Kirunda opened up about the grief his family endured.
“The past year has not been easy. But we thank God and all of you who stood with us during that dark moment. Gladys was deeply loved. We still feel her presence,” he said.
He expressed heartfelt appreciation to Sr. Dr. Grace Akiror, Dean of RDCs Justine Mbabazi, and others who supported him during the most painful time of his life.
Youth Heroes Rewarded
Kirunda made a surprise announcement by gifting motorcycles to a group of youths who tried to save his wife after the accident. He further pledged to construct for each of them a single-bedroom house before Christmas.
“They never cared about money or valuables in the car. They cared about saving her life. Unfortunately, we lost her, but they are heroes,” he emotionally narrated.
As part of continuing his wife’s legacy, Haji Kirunda’s family is donating hospital beds to health facilities across Luuka, five beds per facility, and pledged to support the upgrade of the health centre where Aliyinza breathed her last.
Emotional Tributes Pour In
Dr. Sr. Grace Akiror shared her journey of knowing the Kirunda family through work in State House, while Dr. Dan Ssekiboobo, Senior Presidential Advisor, described Aliyinza as “a cheerful, prayerful and inspiring figure who brought light and hope wherever she was.”
“Busoga lost a fast thinker and a rising star. She was a change agent,” he said.
RDCs led by Justine Mbabazi saluted Kirunda for staying strong and praised the late Gladys’ commitment to family and community.
The memorial also heard from Canon Moses Dhikange of Central Busoga Diocese who reminded mourners that “death doesn’t stop God’s mission,” urging Kirunda and his children to continue with purpose.
Leaders Hail Kirunda’s Public Service
Sheikh Abbas Ssenkuba, Mukono District Khadi, and Sheikh Shafiq Mafo, guest preacher, both praised Haji Kirunda for being a selfless servant of the people.
“He’s a true servant of Uganda. May Allah continue guiding and strengthening him,” Sheikh Ssenkuba said.
“If you love yourself, love others too. Keep peace in your heart and work for the good of all,” Sheikh Mafo advised.
“Her Dream Lives On”
In her remarks, Annet Nabirye, now carrying the torch left behind by her sister, vowed to complete Gladys’ dream of representing Luuka in Parliament.
“Gladys wanted to be Luuka Woman MP. That dream is still alive in me,” Nabirye declared.
As prayers were said, tears shed, and memories shared, one thing was clear: Gladys Aliyinza’s legacy lives on—in her children, in the leadership aspirations of her sister, and in the generous acts of her husband, Haji Kirunda.
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