The ceremony, held at the Parliament building on August 7, was attended by senior government officials, members of her family, relatives, friends and colleagues who gathered to honour her life and contribution to the country.

Representing the Liberal Party (PL), MP Munyangeyo Théogène described Mukabalisa as more than just the party’s president, saying she was a mother figure, mentor and leader who dedicated herself to strengthening the organisation.

“Within PL, Honourable Mukabalisa Donatille was not only the president of the party; she was a mother to many, a counsellor, an educator and a leader who was always committed to building a party founded on unity, cooperation and a shared long-term vision,” Munyangeyo said.

He added that Mukabalisa leaves behind a legacy of ideas and initiatives that will continue to guide PL’s efforts to contribute to Rwanda’s development.

Senate President Dr François Xavier Kalinda said Mukabalisa left behind a valuable legacy that will remain a source of inspiration for fellow lawmakers.

“Dear colleague, Honourable Mukabalisa Donatille, your fellow members of Parliament will always remember the great legacy you have left behind, the good work you did for the country, your family and all those who benefited from your service. May these achievements accompany you as you rest in peace,” Kalinda said.

A message of condolence from President Paul Kagame was delivered by the Secretary General of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi), Ambassador Christophe Bazivamo.

President Kagame described Mukabalisa as a leader who embodied values that have contributed to Rwanda’s progress, including integrity, humility, perseverance and commitment to fulfilling her responsibilities with dedication.

“These qualities came from her deep understanding that serving the country is the greatest responsibility and one of the most valuable duties one can undertake. This spirit of sacrifice and service to others defined her entire life. It earned her respect from those she worked with and the trust she was repeatedly given. The country appreciates her dedication,” President Kagame said.

Mukabalisa was born in Nyamata, Bugesera District, in July 1960. She worked as a law lecturer at the Kigali Independent University (ULK).

She also served with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where she worked for 16 years.

In October 2003, Mukabalisa was elected as a Member of Parliament, serving in the Chamber of Deputies until 2008. She later served as a Senator from 2011 to 2013.

In 2013, she returned to the Chamber of Deputies, where she was elected Speaker and led the lower house until 2024. She did not seek re-election after completing two terms as an MP.

Mukabalisa returned to the Senate in 2024, where she served until her death. Her career in public service spanned more than two decades, during which she held key leadership positions in Rwanda’s legislative institutions.