Fresh reports indicate that medical specialists in the United States and Kenya have advised Shamim Malende, the Kampala District Woman Member of Parliament and a senior lawyer with the National Unity Platform, to temporarily retire from active politics in order to focus on her health.
According to sources close to the legislator, doctors reportedly warned that stepping away from the intense pressures of politics could significantly improve her chances of recovery and help her live longer.
Despite battling health challenges, Malende recently managed to retain her parliamentary seat in the concluded elections.
However, highly placed sources say she is now considering stepping back from frontline political activities following consultations with doctors in the United States and members of her family.
Family members are said to have grown increasingly concerned over her deteriorating health in recent years. Reports indicate that she has been suffering from a mysterious illness that doctors in Nairobi have reportedly struggled to diagnose and treat, with some suspecting symptoms similar to poisoning.
Sources reveal that Malende is currently receiving treatment at a specialised medical facility in the United States known for handling cases involving suspected poisoning. Medical experts there have allegedly advised her to slow down on political engagements and concentrate on recovery.
Her absence from the public eye since being declared winner of the elections has further fueled speculation about the seriousness of her condition.
Meanwhile, insiders claim that Malende became concerned after friends within security circles reportedly warned her that she could be among individuals targeted for arrest due to her association with the protest slogan “Kalonde, Kakume, Kabanje.”
These fears allegedly contributed to her decision to travel abroad for treatment.
Despite the health and security concerns, sources say Malende is expected to return to Uganda soon as the political environment stabilizes. Her return would allow her to prepare for the upcoming parliamentary swearing-in scheduled for May 2026.
However, it remains unclear whether she will fully resume active political duties or follow the doctors’ advice to prioritize her health.
