TAKEAWAYS

• Shamim Malende says she is back and ready to represent Kampala in Parliament despite ongoing treatment.
• She urged NUP supporters to remain committed and not abandon the struggle for change.
• Her return has revived debate over her prolonged medical absences and political future.

Kampala Woman Member of Parliament Shamim Malende has reassured her supporters that she is ready to continue representing their interests after recently taking oath for another parliamentary term.

Malende, who has been battling health challenges and receiving treatment abroad, returned to the country in recent days and used the opportunity to rally her supporters and members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) to remain committed to the party’s agenda for change.

Addressing supporters, the legislator said her absence should not be mistaken for withdrawal from public service, insisting that she remains focused on her responsibility to Kampala residents even as she continues with medical treatment.

“I am back bigger and better to represent my people and fight for their interests,” Malende said.

“We should not lose strength or abandon the path of change. Stay focused and remain hopeful because change is coming,” she added.

Malende’s health journey has kept her in and out of hospital and outside the country for treatment, a situation that has continued to attract debate among political observers, critics and some supporters.

Her prolonged absence from public activities in the past sparked criticism from opponents who questioned her availability and commitment to parliamentary duties. Some critics accused her of resurfacing mainly during politically significant periods, claims her supporters have dismissed as insensitive given her health condition.

Ahead of the recent elections, speculation had emerged suggesting that NUP could replace Malende with Zahara Luyirika as its Kampala Woman MP flag bearer. However, the party retained Malende, while Luyirika pursued political ambitions in Makindye West.

Despite the controversy surrounding her medical condition and time spent abroad, Malende’s return has reignited discussion about her political future and ability to balance treatment with representation.