President Yoweri Museveni paid heartfelt tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya, calling him a pioneer of Uganda’s patriotic politics.
Speaking at a memorial service in Kololo, Museveni reflected on Kategaya’s unwavering commitment to nationalism and his role in shaping Uganda’s political landscape.
A Visionary Leader
Kategaya, who served as Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, passed away on March 2, 2013.
Museveni remembered him as a man who rejected divisive identity politics, which he blamed for Uganda’s past turmoil.
“Kategaya was the pioneer of the politics of patriotism—the politics of loving Uganda,” Museveni said. “In the 1960s, he helped us see the flaws in identity-based politics, which ultimately led to the collapse of 1971 and Amin’s takeover.”
The President urged current leaders to focus on clear objectives and avoid personal gain, echoing Kategaya’s principled approach.
“With Kategaya, politics was about mission, not self-interest,” he emphasized.
A Legacy Celebrated
The memorial service also saw the launch of two books honoring Kategaya’s life. One featured tributes from 20 prominent figures, while the other, Reflections of Resilience, was a memoir by his widow, Joan Kategaya.
Albert Gomes Mugumya, the books’ consultant editor, encouraged Ugandans to document their stories for future generations.
Vice President Jessica Alupo praised Kategaya as a dedicated nationalist and Pan-Africanist.
“He guided the Cabinet with integrity and shaped policies that transformed our nation,” she said.
A Family’s Gratitude
Joan Kategaya, now a Senior Presidential Advisor on Veteran Affairs, expressed deep gratitude for the support her family has received.
“God’s protection has surrounded us, and we are thankful for the love and support from friends, family, and the government,” she said.
Dr. Juliet Kategaya, one of Kategaya’s daughters, also thanked President Museveni and the First Lady for their unwavering commitment to her family.
“My father was a strategic leader who taught us the value of planning and purpose,” she shared.
