Museveni Pays Tribute to Fallen Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has lauded the late President of Iran, H.E. Ebrahim Raisi, as a unifier and dedicated leader, during a heartfelt tribute at the Iranian Embassy in Kampala.

H.E. Raisi, along with Iran's Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and several other officials, tragically died in a helicopter crash on May 19, 2024, near the village of Uzi in East Azerbaijan province.

The Fallen President of Iran on his recent visit to Uganda, met the Archbishop of church of Uganda Kazimba Mugalu and Mufti Shaban Mubajje.

President Museveni recounted his recent interactions with President Raisi, highlighting his commitment to unity and dedication to his work.

"When His Excellency visited us recently, I could see that he was a very dedicated person but also a unifier. Despite our meeting ending late at Entebbe, he insisted on visiting the projects Iran had done here in the suburbs at night. He even visited the Old Kampala Mosque, which is Sunni, demonstrating his belief in unity and dedication," Museveni remarked.

The President shared his shock and sorrow upon learning of Raisi's death, noting the Iranian leader's active diplomatic engagements worldwide.

"I have been following his travels to many places like Venezuela, Pakistan, India, Russia, and other countries. He was a very active person," Museveni said.

He urged the Iranian Embassy to share a significant photo of Raisi with the Mufti and the Archbishop on social media, calling it an important part of Raisi's legacy. "May his soul rest in eternal peace," he added.

President Museveni expressed solidarity with the people of Iran, promising continued cooperation between Uganda and Iran.

"We have been dealing with Iranian leaders ever since we came into government," he noted in the embassy's condolence book.

H.E. Majid Saffar, the Ambassador of Iran to Uganda, thanked President Museveni for his support during this difficult time.

"Your support means a great deal to the Iranian people. May the memories of our martyrs inspire us to work together for a brighter and more peaceful future," Ambassador Saffar stated.

He reflected on the loss of President Raisi and Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, emphasizing their dedication and visionary leadership.

"President Raisi was a dedicated politician, widely respected for his efforts to foster good neighborliness, build confidence, and promote dialogue within the region and beyond. His commitment to peace, stability, and development was unwavering," Saffar noted.

Dr. Amir-Abdollahian was praised as a distinguished diplomat whose principles of good neighborliness and international cooperation resonated globally.

"His absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, but his diplomatic achievements will continue to guide us in our foreign policy endeavors," the Ambassador added.

In honor of their service, the Supreme Leader of Iran has declared five days of national mourning. During this period, Iranians will reflect on the unwavering dedication and profound impact of their fallen leaders' work.

Following the Iranian Constitution, First Vice-President H.E. Mohammad Mokhber has assumed presidential duties until a new election is held within 50 days.

Mr. Ali Bagheri Kani, the Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, has been appointed as the acting Foreign Minister to ensure continuity of leadership.

The ceremony in Kampala was attended by Mr. Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other officials from the Ministry and the Iranian Embassy, highlighting the strong diplomatic ties between Uganda and Iran.