On April 24, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among led Uganda’s official delegation to the burial of Pope Francis, who died on April 21. According to sources who spoke to Monitor, the Vatican had extended an invitation to President Museveni, who instead appointed Speaker Among to represent him at the funeral, scheduled for April 26.
“The President received the invitation and chose the Speaker to attend on his behalf,” a source confirmed. Other sources noted that the Speaker is heading a five-member team, which includes two MPs and two aides.
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Parliament’s Director of Communication and Public Affairs, Mr. Chris Obore, confirmed the Speaker would lead the delegation but did not disclose full details. The team was expected to depart on April 24 and arrive ahead of the burial.
Presidential Press Secretary Sandor Walusimbi also confirmed that the President would not be attending the burial. Speaker Among has met Pope Francis on eight separate occasions—five times privately and twice at official events—highlighting a close rapport between them.
In a media interview on April 21, the Speaker reflected on her past meetings with the Pope, praising his humility, advocacy for peace, and dedication to humanitarian causes. She emphasized that Pope Francis was more than a religious leader—he was also a global voice for justice and compassion, principles she deeply values.
During their private discussions, Among said they explored topics such as peace, development, and Uganda’s role in international humanitarian work. Her selection to lead the delegation underlines the strong diplomatic and spiritual relationship between Uganda and the Vatican.
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