The Other Side of the Story: MP Shamim Malende’s Evacuation for Treatment
Updates: On April 10, 2025, Kampala Woman Member of Parliament Shamim Malende was airlifted to Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, for specialized medical treatment. This development has garnered significant media attention, focusing primarily on her health condition and the circumstances leading to her evacuation. However, beneath the surface lies a complex narrative involving political dynamics, institutional responsibilities, and broader implications for Uganda’s democratic processes.
Background: The Incident in Parliament
The genesis of Malende’s health complications can be traced back to November 6, 2024, during a tumultuous parliamentary session debating the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill. Tensions escalated into a physical altercation involving MPs Francis Zaake and Anthony Akol, leading to the suspension of the sitting. Security personnel were deployed to the chambers and reportedly used force to remove several opposition MPs, including Malende. She alleges that during this scuffle, she was manhandled, exacerbating previous surgical wounds and leading to a prolonged recovery period .
Health Complications and Medical Journey
Following the incident, Malende experienced severe chest and shoulder pains and was admitted to Nsambya Hospital in Kampala. Despite initial treatment, her condition deteriorated, prompting a recommendation for specialized care at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, where she had previously undergone surgery in 2022 . Malende reported experiencing intense pain, difficulty breathing, and low oxygen and blood circulation affecting her heart function .
Institutional Response and Financial Implications
A critical aspect of this narrative is the response—or lack thereof—from parliamentary authorities. According to Malende’s spouse, Andrew Ssebunya, appeals were made to Speaker Anita Among and Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige for assistance and guidance regarding Malende’s deteriorating condition. However, these appeals reportedly went unanswered, leading the family to seek support from the National Unity Platform (NUP) to facilitate her transfer to Nairobi .
Under Uganda’s Parliamentary policy, MPs are entitled to medical insurance for treatment within the country. For treatment abroad, costs are covered only upon recommendation and clearance by the Parliament Medical Board. In Malende’s case, the lack of institutional support raises questions about the accessibility and responsiveness of these mechanisms, especially for opposition members.
Political Undertones and Gender Dynamics
Malende’s situation cannot be divorced from the broader political context. As a prominent member of the opposition and a vocal critic of government policies, her experiences reflect the challenges faced by opposition figures in Uganda. The physical altercation in Parliament and subsequent lack of support may be indicative of a political environment where dissenting voices are marginalized.
Moreover, the gender dynamics at play are significant. Malende’s allegations of being manhandled during the parliamentary scuffle highlight concerns about the treatment of female MPs and the need for gender-sensitive protocols within political institutions.
Public Discourse and Accountability
The media coverage of Malende’s evacuation has largely centered on her health status and the immediate circumstances. However, there is a need for a more nuanced discourse that examines the systemic issues at play. This includes scrutinizing the mechanisms for medical support for MPs, the accountability of parliamentary authorities in safeguarding members’ welfare, and the broader implications for democratic governance.
Conclusion
MP Shamim Malende’s evacuation for treatment is not merely a personal health crisis but a reflection of deeper institutional and political challenges. It underscores the need for robust support systems for all MPs, irrespective of political affiliation, and highlights the importance of addressing gender-based concerns within political institutions. As Uganda continues to navigate its democratic journey, ensuring the welfare and equitable treatment of all representatives remains paramount.
Sources: Monitor
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