The former minister and District Woman MP for Bushenyi district Mary Busingye Karoro Okurut has passed away. Her death was announced by Margaret Muhanga, State Minister for Primary Healthcare.
“With so much pain, grief and sorrow, I announce the death of my ‘bosom buddy’ Mary Karoro Okurut. My literature teacher, my mentor, my very close buddy, my world, my all. So painful to imagine. This is a sting I’ll never forget. May the angels receive her in glory,” Muhanga shared in an emotional tribute.
Mary Karoro Okurut was a respected educator, author, and politician, whose decades-long career in public service left a lasting mark on Uganda’s political and social landscape.
She most recently served as Cabinet Minister in Charge of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, a position she held from June 6, 2016. Prior to that, she served as Minister for National Security from March 1, 2015, succeeding Wilson Muruli Mukasa.
Between 2012 and 2015, she was Minister of Gender and Social Issues, following the resignation of Syda Bbumba. In all these roles, she was known for her strong leadership, advocacy for women, and commitment to national development.
Karoro Okurut also represented Bushenyi District Women’s Constituency in Parliament, where she was a strong voice for her community and a role model for many aspiring female leaders.
In the 2020 NRM party primaries, she lost the party flag to Annet Katusiime Mugisha, who went on to win the seat in the 2021 general elections.
Mary Karoro Okurut’s contributions as a trailblazer in politics and education, as well as her legacy as a mentor, leader, and visionary, will continue to inspire generations.
