By Our Reporter

The father of former Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oulanyah, Mzee Nathan Okori, has passed away on March 20, 2026, exactly four years after the death of his son, in a development described as “uncanny” by Justice Minister Norbert Mao. Okori had been reportedly battling respiratory complications and was rushed to St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor two days prior to his death, before his condition worsened.

“This is uncanny! On the fourth anniversary of the death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah, we have lost his father Mzee Nathan Okori,” Mao said. “I have just received the sad news from his family that two days ago he was rushed to Lacor with respiratory complications, and today he died. Sad!”

Mzee Okori became a prominent public figure during his son’s burial in Omoro District in April 2022, when he publicly challenged the official cause of Jacob Oulanyah’s death, alleging poisoning. These claims attracted national attention but were never conclusively substantiated.

Jacob Oulanyah died on March 20, 2022, at a hospital in Seattle, United States, at the age of 56. His death was officially announced by President Yoweri Museveni, who described him as a “good cadre” and a rising national leader. “Oulanyah was young but had already made an impact,” Museveni said at the state funeral held at Kololo Independence Grounds. “Losing him at this time is a big loss because he was coming up and the country was going to benefit from him.”

Born in 1965 in Omoro District, northern Uganda, Oulanyah trained as a lawyer and rose through the political ranks to become one of the country’s most influential legislators. He served as Deputy Speaker from 2016 to 2021 before being elected Speaker in May 2021, narrowly defeating Rebecca Kadaga. His tenure as Speaker was short-lived, lasting less than a year, as his health deteriorated. Government officials, including Minister Jane Ruth Aceng, later indicated that his illness had begun in 2019 and eventually led to multiple organ failure.

Following his death, Parliament elected Anita Among as his successor, ensuring continuity in the legislative arm of government. Four years on, Oulanyah’s legacy continues to resonate in Uganda’s political landscape, remembered for his legal acumen, sharp wit, and ability to navigate complex parliamentary debates.

The passing of his father on the same date adds a poignant layer to that legacy, rekindling memories of both personal loss and a political career that many believe ended prematurely.

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