By Nathan Eyagu

SOROTI - Grief and reflection enveloped mourners on Thursday as leaders and residents gathered at Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church in Soroti to pay their final respects to the late Ngora District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Stella Apolot Isodo. Amid the solemn atmosphere, a powerful message of unity and selfless service echoed through the congregation as Soroti City West MP-elect and Vice Chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for Eastern Uganda, Mr David Calvin Echodu, praised the fallen legislator as a model leader whose legacy transcends political boundaries.

Addressing hundreds of mourners, Mr Echodu spoke emotionally about Hon. Apolot’s character and dedication to public service, describing her as a principled, hardworking and people-centered leader.

“Though I only met the late MP twice while she was alive, I came to learn that she was a very principled person who loved her work and served diligently,” Echodu said. “She was a leader who put the needs of her people first.”

Mr Echodu expressed deep regret that death had cut short the opportunity to build a closer working relationship with Hon. Apolot, particularly in advancing development and unity in the Teso sub-region.

“I had hoped to share more with her and work together for the good of our people, but sadly death has robbed us of a leader whose wisdom and commitment we still needed,” he added.

In a gesture that further underscored his message of unity, Mr Echodu announced a contribution of Uganda Shillings five million towards the burial arrangements of the late MP, drawing appreciation from the bereaved family, religious leaders and mourners in attendance.

He challenged leaders across the political divide to emulate Hon. Apolot’s example, noting that her leadership went beyond party interests and focused on service, development and the welfare of ordinary citizens.

“Hon. Stella Apolot Isodo showed us that leadership is about service, not confrontation,” Echodu said. “Her life should inspire us to rise above our differences and work together for the development of our communities.”

Also present at the funeral was Dakabella County MP-elect, Mr Peter Edeku Edopu, who urged the people of Teso to reject divisive politics and embrace unity, especially at a time of loss.

“Let us desist from politics of division,” Mr Edeku said. “The late Hon. Stella Apolot practiced politics of development, and that is the path we should follow.”

Hon. Stella Apolot Isodo, who served as Ngora District Woman MP under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket, passed away on January 17, 2026, after a period of illness. Her passing has drawn condolences from across the political spectrum, reflecting the deep respect she earned during her time in public service.

As prayers continued and tributes flowed, mourners described the late MP as a symbol of resilience, integrity and compassion. For many, her life remains a lasting reminder that true leadership is measured not by party affiliation, but by commitment to the people and service to humanity.