Lord Mayor Elias Lukwago Pays Heartfelt Tribute to the Late Daudi Mugema

By Macona Brian

Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late singer Daudi Mugema, describing him as both a brother and a political comrade.

Speaking during the memorial service, Lukwago chose not to address mourners in his official capacity, but rather as a man mourning the loss of a beloved friend.

I stand before you today not as the Lord Mayor of Kampala, but as a man who has lost a dear friend, a brother, a companion in the struggle, Daudi Mugema.

He described Mugema as a man of principle, courage, and compassion.

He also painted him as someone whose presence brought comfort in times of despair and whose passion for justice never dimmed, even under pressure.

He was a voice of reason in chaotic moments, a hand on my shoulder during the darkest days. We laughed together, fought side by side for justice, and dared to dream of a better Uganda. Today, that voice is silent. That hand is gone. And my heart is heavy.

Lukwago recalled Mugema’s bravery in the face of adversity, noting that despite the risks and personal sacrifices, he never backed down from what he believed was right.

Daudi’s courage inspired many. Even in the face of threats, intimidation, and hardship, he stood tall, never wavering, never compromising. That rare kind of bravery… it is not easily found.

While acknowledging the political and national significance of Mugema’s work, the Lord Mayor made it clear that it was the personal bond they shared that he would miss most.

I will miss his counsel. I will miss his loyalty. But most of all, I will miss his friendship. Kampala has lost a true son. I have lost a brother. And Uganda has lost a patriot.

He closed his tribute with a call to continue the work Mugema dedicated his life to, which was the pursuit of a better Uganda.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. And may we carry forward his legacy, with the same fearlessness, the same conviction, and the same love he had for his people. Farewell, Daudi Mugema. You will never be forgotten.