By Uganda on Wednesday paid its final respects to Major (Rtd) John Kazoora, a soldier, former legislator, and statesman, whose life was defined by patriotism, discipline, and an unshakable moral compass.
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A funeral service held at All Saints Cathedral Nakasero drew a cross-section of Uganda’s political, military, and religious leaders. It was a moment of national reflection on a man who traversed the country’s liberation struggles, legislative halls, and opposition politics with unwavering conviction.
Bishop Hannington Mutebi led the service, which was attended by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, Inspector General of Government Beti Kamya, and several dignitaries.
Born on August 4, 1958, Kazoora was a career soldier who served in both the FRONASA and NRA liberation movements before transitioning to politics, representing Kashari County in Parliament for more than a decade. His political journey reached a new phase in 2005 when he fell out with President Museveni and co-founded the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), serving as its first Secretary for Defence, Security, and Internal Affairs.
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In tribute after tribute, friends and family speakers emphasized Kazoora’s rare quality of principled leadership.
“He never saw disagreement as hostility,” said Naomi Kabasharira, his widow and MP for Rushenyi County. She spoke fondly of a marriage in which opposing political views never stood in the way of mutual respect and love. “He loved deeply, he served sincerely, and he stood firm for what he believed,” she said.
His son, Albert Asiimwe Kazoora, painted a tender picture of a father who was both strong and nurturing. “To us, he was like Rambo fearless, protective, but always guided by love and reason,” he said, moving many in the congregation to tears.
Tayebwa, delivering President Museveni’s message, described Kazoora as a unifier across political divides.
“He was more than a politician he was a bridge-builder,” Tayebwa said, referring to him as “Uncle John.” The President contributed Shs10 million towards the burial expenses.
Kazoora’s legacy extends beyond politics. In 2014, he published “Betrayed By My Leader”, a memoir that offered a candid critique of Uganda’s post-liberation political trajectory. The book remains an essential read for those seeking insight into the struggles of those who dared to challenge the status quo from within.
A strong sense of duty was etched into Kazoora’s character from his school days at Nyakasura, recalled Hannington Karuhanga, his longtime friend and schoolmate. The pair met over five decades ago, and Karuhanga credits their shared educational background for shaping Kazoora’s values.
Maj Gen Sabiiti Muzeyi spoke as both a fellow soldier and a relative, recalling Kazoora’s quiet resolve during the liberation war. “He didn’t fight for power, he fought for justice,” Muzeyi said. “And he remained true to that mission until the end.”
Rev Gillian Okello, the Parliament chaplain, delivered a sermon urging mourners to live with intention and faith — a message that resonated with the life Kazoora lived: deeply spiritual, purpose-driven, and selfless.
Kazoora passed away on April 20 at the age of 66 after a long battle with diabetes. He will be laid to rest on Thursday, April 24, in Rutooma, Kashari in Mbarara District.
As Uganda lowers the flag for one of its most outspoken sons, a nation remembers not only the soldier and politician but the man whose conscience stood tall amid the shifting sands of power. His voice may be gone, but the legacy of truth and courage he leaves behind will echo for years to come.
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