Speaker Jacob Oulanyah’s ill health dates way back in 2019 when he discovered that he had a swelling on the neck and travelled to Germany for an operation.
In Germany, he was told the swelling was a cancer.
Upon return to Uganda, he was subjected to cancer treatment at Uganda Cancer Institute. He finished the medication.
However, his health gradually declined until he died from Seattle, America in a reputable cancer hospital, Washington Medical Center.
Oulanyah died of “multiple organ failure,” revealed Minister of Health Dr Ruth Aceng, who summarized the medical report which showed his cause of death as legislators paid tribute to the fallen Speaker whose body lied on the Floor of Parliament.
Aceng added that, Oulanyah’s health started to deteriorate rapidly during lockdown when the world was battling Covid-19 pandemic.
“He was unable to fly to get specialized treatment abroad,” she said.
In her summary, Aceng said that the multiple chemotherapy which Oulanyah was receiving had suppressed his bone marrow.
Early January, he was admitted to Mulago Cancer Institute and at that time his liver was malfunctioning while his lungs had collapsed.
It is against that backdrop that experts suggested that he is flown to Seattle.
Aceng said that Oulanyah also experienced abdominal bleeding because his platelets were not functioning.
“Heart and kidney failed in Seattle,” she said.
Aceng’s explanation clears doubts on what could have been the cause of Oulanyah’s death with close relatives and friends earlier suspecting ‘foul play.’
While in Seattle he developed bacterial and viral infections because his bone marrow was unable to produce white and red blood cells to fight any infections in the body.
Aceng said a comprehensive report will be read out tomorrow at Kololo grounds during the state funeral.