BY OUR REPORTER

The political landscape of Eastern Uganda, particularly the Teso sub-region, is engulfed in mourning following the death of Stella Apolot Isodo, the Ngora District Woman Member of Parliament, whose life and public service came to a quiet but painful end on Saturday.

Isodo was pronounced dead at Kampala Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. Her passing came just two days after she lost her parliamentary seat in the recently concluded general elections, bringing a tragic close to a political journey marked by resilience, dedication, and service.

A senior member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Isodo had contested the Ngora Woman MP seat while battling a prolonged illness. Despite her health challenges, she remained determined to serve, relying on campaign agents to engage voters on her behalf. In the final tally, she garnered 11,334 votes, losing to Josephine Pedun of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who secured 17,010 votes.

FDC President Patrick Amuriat revealed that Isodo had been flown abroad last year for specialized medical care and underwent what was described as a successful surgery. She later returned to Uganda hopeful of recovery and political continuity.

“She came back with the hope of recovering fully to resume her political duties. Unfortunately, her health did not allow her to campaign personally,” Amuriat said, adding that her illness played a significant role in the election outcome.

Beyond her role as Ngora Woman MP, Isodo also served as the Spokesperson of the Teso Parliamentary Group, where she earned respect across party lines for her calm leadership, cooperation, and commitment to regional interests. Colleagues describe her as a bridge-builder who prioritized service over political rivalry.

The news of her death has been especially painful for her family and the wider community. Soroti City Speaker Juliet Agonyo noted the cruel timing of the loss, revealing that Isodo’s family was already preparing to bury her stepbrother when tragedy struck again.

Born on October 25, 1974, Stella Apolot Isodo was 51 years old. As of press time, funeral arrangements had not yet been officially announced.

As Teso reflects on her life and service, many remember Isodo not merely for her final election loss, but for her unwavering commitment to public service even in the face of failing health. Her final political journey stands as a reminder of the human cost behind leadership and the quiet sacrifices made in the pursuit of service.