Government is set to announce a team led by Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda that will coordinate with the family of late former Premier Prof. Apolo Nsibambi to accord him a descent burial.
The late Nsibambi who is said to have been battling cancer, passed on last evening at his home in bulange Mengo in presence of his wife.
Now, government has issued a statement mourning his death, but also explaining that as a former leader of government business in the house, they would ensure that he receives a proper send off.
Prof. Nsibambi was Uganda's Prime Minister from April 1999 to 2011. He also served as minister of public service, and minister of Education and Sports between 1996 and 1999.
Before joining the Central government, the good professor served as minister of Constitutional and political affairs at Mengo, and lead negotiator with government in the return of "Ebyaffe".
He is survived by a widow only identified as Esther who he married in 2003 after the death of his first wife Rhoda in 2001.
Government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo describes the late professor as an outstanding and accomplished academician, a distinguished public servant who mentored many and brought discipline into government service.
" Government of Uganda condoles with the family, friends and the entire country on this loss" Opondo says.
Adding that; "Government will constitute a committee to arrange for the funeral and a detailed burial program issued in consultation with family."
Opondo's statement follows one issued by the President who instructed Prime Minister Dr. Rugunda to head a team from government.
"I have learnt of the untimely passing of the former Prime Minister, Prof Apolo Nsibambi. He was a true patriot and great academic. The country will miss him. I have instructed Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda to lead a team that will ensure we give Prof Nsibambi a befitting send-off" the President's message read last evening.
May his soul rest in peace.
