Summary:
Muzanira expressed concerns over the condition of four-time presidential candidate Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, whose frail state in detention continues to worry many Ugandans.
RUKUNGIRI: As Uganda commemorates the life and martyrdom of Archbishop Janani Luwum on February 16, 2025, former Rukungiri District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Betty Bamukwatsa Muzanira, has criticized religious leaders for their silence on political prisoners.
This annual commemoration honors Janani Luwum, the former Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Uganda, who was executed by President Idi Amin’s regime for his outspoken opposition to human rights violations.
The day is dedicated to celebrating his legacy of courage in standing against Amin’s dictatorship, a stance that ultimately cost him his life.
In an interview with our reporter, Betty Muzanira emphasized Janani Luwum’s bravery despite the threats and persecution he faced from Idi Amin’s regime.
She expressed disappointment in current religious leaders, accusing them of failing to strongly condemn human rights violations under President Museveni’s government.
She criticized their silence while Ugandans are arrested and detained without due process.
Muzanira also highlighted cases of torture in Ugandan prisons, citing the former Kawempe Member of Parliament, Muhammad Ssegirinya, whose torture allegedly led to his death. She further expressed concerns over the condition of four-time presidential candidate Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, whose frail state in detention continues to worry many Ugandans.
Cue in Muzanira… on religious leaders… RR//
The Chairperson of Buyanja Sub-County in Rukungiri District, Agaba Emmy Rubondo, echoed similar sentiments, stating that Janani Luwum’s courage in condemning human rights abuses should serve as an inspiration today.
He noted that many religious leaders now refrain from speaking out due to fear of assassination, drawing parallels between the current administration and that of Amin.
Cue in Rubondo… on Luwum’s Day… RR//
Janani Luwum served as the Archbishop of Uganda from 1974 to 1977 and was one of Africa’s most influential church leaders. He was arrested in February 1977 and died shortly thereafter under mysterious circumstances.
According to the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the 48th commemoration of Archbishop Janani Luwum is being held at Wii-Gweng, Mucwini, in Kitgum District. He noted that this year’s event has drawn a significant number of foot pilgrims from various parts of Uganda.
The pilgrimage began on Sunday, February 9, 2025, from St. Philip’s Cathedral in Gulu, where the pilgrims were flagged off by Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, Bishop of the Diocese of Northern Uganda.
Canon Ongeng also announced that the Main Celebrant for this year’s event will be the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu. The preacher will be Rt. Rev. Assoc. Prof. Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Ankole Diocese and Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda.
The President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, is expected to grace the celebrations as the Chief Guest. This year’s theme is “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good” (Galatians 6:9).
