After the sudden loss of Rotary International President-elect Sam Owori, Rotary International finds itself in the unusual position of seeking another individual to lead the 1.2 million member organisation beginning July 1, 2018. 
 
This is the first time where something like this has happened in Rotary International's long history.
 
Owori, 75, died last week after complications from leg surgery in Texas. Owori was a member of the Rotary Club of Kampala for 38 years in his native Uganda, and would have been only the second African to lead the organisation in its 112-year history. 
 
"Sam was a special person in so many ways, and is a huge loss," said Ian Riseley, RI President. "This is a difficult time for all of us, and while it is hard to think about replacing our friend Sam so soon, we have to move ahead in the best interests of our organisation."