Minister Sarah Mateke Eulogized As A Humble Politician

Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke has been hailed as a very humble person despite her position as a minister. Speaking at parliament on Monday at a funeral service held in her honour, Dr Samuel Kaziimba-Mugalu, the archbishop of the Church of Uganda said unlike many politicians, Mateke always sought to keep a low profile despite her position. 

“She has been a member of our church; she comes and sits far in the corner where you cannot see her. Some Members of Parliament and religious leaders even when they come late, they want to sit in front even when there are no seats. They look around as if to say, haven’t you seen me. If you have not introduced an MP, you would be in trouble. I want to thank God for her contribution to the church,”Kaziimba said. 

As Bishop of Kampala, Kaziimba is based at All Saints Cathedral where Mateke has been a member. Another service is organized for her at the Church tomorrow. The speaker of parliament Annet Anita Among also described Mateke as a humble person who cared about her friends. “The loss of our loved one is always a traumatic experience to all of us. Sarah was a uniting factor, she was that girl of harmony, she was a friend other than a colleague. She was a peaceful soul and very good at reconciliation. When we learnt about her death, I thought it was fake news,” Among said.

She called upon MPs to love each and make parliament their home. “It’s love that brings us together, its honesty that brings us together. Parliament of Uganda is our home…This is your home as MPs and we will take care of you. We will budget for you and we will take care of all expenses,” Among said. For her part, Robinah Nabbanja, the Prime Minister said she has been a personal friend to Mateke. 

She said last week after chairing cabinet, Mateke told her that her legs were swelling and she advised her to go to hospital, not knowing that would be her last interaction with her.“Her humility, dedication and passion were evident in everything she did. Always placing the needs of others before her own. She was inspirational, she always smiled and was always happy. We were personal friends beyond our routine work in government,” Nabbanja said. Mateke, a daughter to veteran politician Dr Philemon Mateke died Saturday at Mengo hospital and will be buried on Thursday in Kisoro district.