By Damali Mukhaye, Moses Kyeyune & Stephen Mbidde
Various leaders have paid tribute to Former Kampala Mayor and Democratic Party President John Ssebaana Kizito.
He died this morning at the age of 83 at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala where he has been undergoing treatment.
According to Dr. Josephe Okia, the deceased was taken to hospital after he suffered a stroke.
Sebaana served the country in various capacities both in the government and private sector in his earlier days and as such many leaders have described him as an exemplary and irreplaceable leader.
The Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga has described Ssebaana Kizito as a man whose economic record for the country must be hailed.
Kadaga was speaking to the media at Parliament earlier on Monday, where she emphasized that Ssebaana, despite his political affiliation served Uganda with immeasurable passion and will definitely be missed.
Former Democratic Party President Paul Kawanga Ssemwogere says the party and the country at large have lost a great leader.
From the Buganda Kingdom, the Kingdom’s 3rd Deputy Prime Minister Apollo Makubuya says they have lost a great adviser.
Trade minister Amelia Kyambadde has described Ssebaana as a solid businessman and politician.
Members of Parliament too have paid tribute to the fallen former Democratic Party President, with many praised him as a devoted Ugandan who maintained a consistent mind.
Law makers including Kasanda North’s Simeo Nsubuga, Mawokota South’s John Bosco Lubyayi, Katikamu North’s Abraham Byandala as well as Francis Mwijukye are among those who have paid tribute.
Byandala describes Ssebaana as a hardworking Ugandan whose death leaves a huge gap in both the private sector and political circles.
Byandala also worked as City Engineer and Surveyor for Kampala City Council during the time Sebaana was Mayor, and he says that he always exhibited professional maturity above politics.
Until his death, Sebaana has been operating several huge capital ventures including State Wide Insurance (SWICO) and several other businesses.
According to the deceased’s daughter identified as Ruth Ssebaana, the body will be taken for a vigil at his home in Kansanga.
She says burial arrangements shall be announced by the family later after a meeting held with Democratic Party, KCCA and Buganda kingdom officials.