Ugandans Mourn Former MP Kyanjo, An Advocate of Honesty
The demise of businessman-turned-legislator, Hajj Hussein Kyanjo over the weekend saw many people take to social media platforms to pay tribute. Kyanjo, who lost the battle to dystonia, a rare disease that affected his ability to speak, breathed his last at Kibuli Hospital in Kampala on Saturday morning July 21, 2023. His legacy as a distinguished lawmaker, a unifying figure, and a leader of integrity stood out.
Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, mourned Kyanjo’s passing and acknowledged his significant contributions to legislative excellence. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, lauded Kyanjo’s eloquence as an astute debater and highlighted his vocal stance on issues like corruption, human rights, and good governance. Kyanjo’s political approach was shaped by his upbringing in the villages of greater Masaka, emphasizing a commitment to speaking out against injustices. Serving in Parliament from 2006 to 2016, his tenure was marked by dedication, yet it was cut short due to a prolonged illness.
As the shadow Internal Affairs Minister, Kyanjo advocated for a balance in appointments for top ranks in the army and police, warning against regional bias. He championed equality and was a devoted supporter of the Kabaka and Buganda Kingdom, while also advocating for human rights and the rule of law.
Despite rising to prominence, he maintained a simple and decent life even after leaving the legislature. Kyanjo believed that planning for life beyond Parliament was essential, as death was an inevitable part of life. He was laid to rest in Ntuuma village in Bukomansimbi district.
Who was Kyanjo
Born in 1960 in Ntuuma, Bukomasimbi district, Kyanjo became the first member of the Justice Forum (JEEMA) party to be elected to parliament when defeated the experienced Makindye West legislator and lawyer, Yusuf Nsubuga Nsambu.
Kyanjo was also a vocal advocate of Muslim rights as he teamed up with his peers from Makerere University under the Makerere University Muslim Student’s Association-MUMSA to fight for Muslim rights. Kyanjo gained fame on FM talk shows in Kampala for his well-researched debating skills and his willingness to defend the marginalized while constructively criticizing the government in power.
Upon joining Parliament, Kyanjo served on the Defence and Internal Affairs Committee, where he actively worked to address issues related to law and order, particularly combating police brutality. He voiced concerns about the lack of police independence due to interference from higher authorities.
While he was critical of the UPDF and the Police at times, Kyanjo also advocated for improving the welfare of their personnel, including those from Makindye Barracks and Nsambya police. He urged for promotions and opportunities for training courses abroad to be distributed more equitably.
In addition to his work on defense and international affairs, Kyanjo was among the Baganda MPs who opposed the Land Act Amendment Bill, leading to the Land Act Amendment Bill of 2010. During the 2009 riots following tensions between the central government and Buganda, Kyanjo even suggested secession as a viable option for the Buganda Kingdom, a view he maintained until his passing.
