“When His Excellency visited us recently, it was clear he was both dedicated and a unifier. After a late meeting in Entebbe, he insisted on visiting Iran’s projects in the suburbs that night. He then proceeded to Old Kampala Mosque. Despite being Shia, he visited a Sunni mosque and met our Archbishop through the Inter-Religious Council, demonstrating his personal dedication and belief in unity,” President Museveni remarked.
President Museveni made these comments at the Iranian Embassy in Kampala while mourning President Raisi, who died on May 19, 2024, along with Iran’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and several officials in a helicopter crash near the village of Uzi in East Azerbaijan province. They were returning from the inauguration of the Qiz-Qalasi Dam, a joint Iran-Azerbaijan project on the Aras transboundary river.
President Museveni expressed his shock upon hearing of Raisi’s death.
“I followed his extensive travels to countries like Venezuela, Pakistan, India, and Russia. He was incredibly active,” Museveni said. “The photo of him with the Mufti and the Archbishop should be shared on social media. It is a significant part of his legacy. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
He assured the Iranian people of Uganda’s solidarity during this difficult time and pledged continued cooperation for mutual betterment.
“We have been engaging with Iranian leaders since our administration began,” he noted.
Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, Majid Saffar, thanked President Museveni for his gesture, calling it a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity between Uganda and Iran.
“We are deeply grateful to you, Your Excellency, for standing with us during this time of mourning and reflection. Your support means a great deal to the Iranian people. May the memories of our martyrs inspire us to work together for a brighter, more peaceful future,” Ambassador Saffar said.
He described the tragic loss of President Raisi and Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian as leaving the nation in profound sorrow.
“This tragic incident took from us some of our most dedicated and visionary leaders. President Raisi was a dedicated politician, widely respected for his tireless efforts to foster good neighbourliness, build confidence, and promote dialogue. His commitment to peace, stability, and development was unwavering. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on our nation’s path, and his legacy will forever inspire us,” Ambassador Saffar noted.
He also praised Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian as a distinguished diplomat, highly regarded for his contributions to regional diplomacy and international cooperation.
“His principles of good neighbourliness resonated far beyond our borders, promoting harmony and understanding in a complex world. His absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, but his diplomatic achievements will continue to guide us,” Saffar added.
Ambassador Saffar informed President Museveni and the mourners that the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran had declared five days of national mourning to honor their service and sacrifice, reflecting on their unwavering dedication and profound impact.
“We remember them not only as prominent figures but as symbols of resilience, diplomacy, and commitment to our great nation,” he said.
In accordance with the Iranian Constitution, First Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber has assumed the duties of President until a new election is held within a maximum of 50 days. Additionally, Ali Bagheri Kani, the Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, has been appointed acting Foreign Minister to ensure continuity of leadership during this period.
Also in attendance was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, among other officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Iranian Embassy.
