Lawmakers across the political divide have paid tribute to the late Stella Isodo Apolot, describing her as an all-embracing, supportive and collaborative legislator whose death has left a gap in Parliament.
Isodo, the former Woman Member of Parliament for Ngora District, died on Saturday, January 17, 2026. She served in the 11th Parliament on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket. Her seat has since been won by Josephine Pedun of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who secured 17,010 votes in parliamentary polls held on Thursday, January 17, 2026.
Colleagues who served with Isodo say she played an important role in parliamentary work, particularly in mentoring younger legislators and fostering cooperation across party lines.
The NRM Parliamentary Caucus spokesperson, Alex Brandon Kintu (Kagoma North), said Isodo was a senior legislator whose experience benefited many members of Parliament regardless of political affiliation.
Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines
"She has been a senior legislator in this country. I met her in Parliament and I have been learning a lot as a junior legislator," Kintu said. "She cut across irrespective of political party affiliation and was very collaborative."
Kintu also recalled Isodo's personal support to fellow lawmakers, noting that she attended and financially contributed to fundraising activities in his constituency, just as colleagues supported similar initiatives in Ngora District.
"She was a very serious member of Parliament, a mother and a good Christian. We will dearly miss her," he added.
Similarly, the chairperson of the Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA), Sarah Opendi, praised Isodo for her reliability, generosity and commitment to parliamentary and extra-parliamentary work. Opendi, who is also the Woman MP for Tororo District, said that although Isodo was often quiet during House proceedings, she was highly active and dependable outside the chamber.
"Whenever we had activities under UWOPA and you called her at short notice, she would actually be there," Opendi said. "It is very unfortunate that we will miss her."
Opendi also highlighted Isodo's ability to work beyond party lines, describing her as an all-embracing leader who interacted freely with colleagues from different political parties despite being an FDC member.
Isodo's death has prompted renewed reflection among legislators on her role in promoting cooperation, mentorship and unity in Parliament, as preparations continue for her burial and formal tributes in the House.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
