News of the death of Apolo Nsibambi has been met with widespread support with condolence messages pouring in for Uganda’s longest serving prime Minister, who died today at his home in Rubaga.
Prof. Nsibambi, 78, also a one time chancellor of Makerere University, is said to have been battling prostate cancer. Close sources say he refused to seek for government help and decided to keep his illness a secret with his family till his death.
An academic, Nsibambi studied at King’s College Budo, Makerere University, the University of Chicago, University of Nairobi, and University of London.
He served as the Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences at Makerere University before being appointed Head of the Department of Political Science in 1987. He was Director of the Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) from 1994 to 1996.
Between 1996 and 1998, he served as Minister of Public Service in the Uganda Cabinet. In 1998 he was appointed Minister of Education and Sports, serving in that capacity until 1999 when he was appointed Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business. He was succeeded by Amama Mbabazi on May 24, 2011.
Tributes pour in
Many Ugandans reacted with shock the moment news of Prof. Nsibambi’s death flooded social media.
Democratic Party president Nobert Mao said he was saddened to learn of the death of former Prime Minister Prof. Apollo Nsibambi.
“I convey my condolences to his family and also to all Ugandans. An accomplished academic who transitioned smoothly into the political arena, Nsibambi served with integrity, dignity and class. RIP”
The Parliamentary Commission has learnt with sorrow of the passing of former Prime Minister & Leader of Government Business, Prof Apollo Nsibambi. Our condolences to the family, relatives & the country at large on this great loss of a powerful servant of the nation. #RIPNsibambi pic.twitter.com/opmRiqL3xI
— Parliament of Uganda (@Parliament_Ug) May 28, 2019
Alliance for National Transformation’s Gregory Mugisha Muntu said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Professor Apollo Nsibambi. We pray that God strengthens the family as they go through this undoubtedly difficult time.”
I have received the news of the passing on of Prof. Apolo Nsibambi former chancellor of MAKERERE University with shock. Prof. Nsibambi was an outstanding scholar and he served Mak diligently as a professor of political science and as the first non Head of State Chancellor. pic.twitter.com/GtdF3MRZwl
— Barnabas Nawangwe (@ProfNawangwe) May 28, 2019
Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng tweeted; “I am deeply saddened by the passing on of our former Prime Minister and intellectual guru, Prof. Apollo Nsibambi. His sense of humor and contribution to the development of Uganda will never be forgotten. May his soul Rest in eternal peace. May the good Lord comfort his family.”
State Minister for Higher Education John Chrysestom Muyingo said’ “I have learned, with so much sadness the death of my mentor, friend, and comrade Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi. He was a great technocrat and politician, in his own caliber of excellence. His loss is a great blow to the country. Rest in peace, my friend. May the Lord strengthen your family and friends, during this trying moment.”
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