Dokolo MP Cecilia Ogwal has passed away at the age of 77 due to cancer in an Indian hospital on January 18, 2024, as confirmed by her brother Alfred Opio. Ogwal, a politician, businesswoman, and management consultant, had traveled to India for a medical review.
Geoffrey Ocen, Amolatar LC5 chairman, highlighted Ogwal’s significant contributions to Uganda’s political landscape. He credited her for her role in overturning Article 262, which prohibited multiparty politics, paving the way for Uganda’s transition from a single-party state.
Ocen emphasized Ogwal’s impact as a legislator, describing her as the voice of the voiceless and a source of pride for the Lango sub-region. David Kennedy Odongo, chairperson of all district chairpersons and mayors in Lango, echoed the sentiment, expressing sadness at her demise and acknowledging her as an icon of Lango.
Billie Otto, Oyam LC5 councillor, praised Ogwal’s strength and dependability, considering her the biggest pillar for Africa. Prossy Langol, ONC coordinator for NRM in Lango, commemorated Ogwal’s legacy as a leader and advocate, expressing deep sorrow at the loss.
Ambrose Orech, Amolatar District youth councillor, highlighted Ogwal’s charismatic leadership and her impartial approach to politics.
Born on June 12, 1946, in Dokolo District, Ogwal rose to prominence as a career MP and businesswoman. Her academic journey included a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi and qualifications from the Uganda Management Institute, Singapore, and Australia.
Ogwal’s diverse professional experiences included roles at the Uganda Embassy in Kenya and the Uganda Advisory Board of Trade. She played a crucial role in founding the Housing Finance Bank and chaired the Uganda Development Bank.
In politics, Ogwal served as the acting Secretary General of UPC and played a pivotal role in the Constituent Assembly, contributing to the drafting of the 1995 Ugandan Constitution. She later transitioned to the FDC party, winning the Women’s Representative seat for Dokolo District in 2011.
Ogwal’s parliamentary contributions were substantial, particularly in the Committee of Physical Infrastructure and the budget committee, reflecting her dedication to shaping Uganda’s development.
In her personal life, Ogwal, affectionately known as the “Iron Lady,” was a loving wife and mother of seven natural children. Notably, she won the first “Miss Uganda” contest in 1969, adding glamour to her multifaceted life.
Cecilia Ogwal will be remembered as a dedicated politician, businesswoman, and advocate for women’s rights.
