Kampala Woman Member of Parliament Shamim Malende is set to return to Uganda early next week after spending over three months receiving medical treatment in Nairobi, Kenya.
Malende, a prominent figure in Uganda’s political scene and a vocal opposition leader, announced on Wednesday through a heartfelt social media post:
“Coming back home, Monday 21/7/2025. Thank you, my people.”
The MP was airlifted to Nairobi on April 10th after developing serious health complications believed to have stemmed from a physical confrontation in Parliament.
The incident, which drew widespread attention, occurred during heated protests against the passing of controversial legislation aimed at rationalising the Uganda Coffee Development Authority.
During the fracas, Malende was reportedly manhandled by security forces and subsequently began experiencing difficulty in breathing.
Initially admitted to Nsambya Hospital, her condition worsened, prompting the transfer to Nairobi for specialized care.
Doctors have cited persistent issues, including low blood pressure, reduced oxygen levels, and potential impacts on her heart and other vital organs. However, the exact nature of her illness remains unclear.
Speaking about her ordeal, Malende shared,
“I came back for review in January, but the doctors held me here, saying my condition was going into the chronic stage. They needed to continue running tests and managing my condition.”
Despite the health scare, Malende has signaled her intention to return to active politics and is expected to seek re-election in 2026.
However, she is likely to face stiff competition for the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag, with several aspirants eyeing the position, most notably Zahara Lukyirika, the current Speaker of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
Malende’s return is anticipated with a mix of concern and hope by supporters, many of whom have followed her recovery closely.
Her resilience and continued political ambition, even in the face of serious health challenges, have solidified her image as a determined advocate for democratic reform and justice.
As she prepares to land on Ugandan soil again, all eyes will be on how her health holds up — and how the political chessboard shifts in Kampala ahead of the 2026 general elections.
