Political and civil society leaders in Greater Kabale District have criticized the Ugandan government for what they describe as the continued suppression of citizens’ rights, as Christians across the country commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day.
Robert Byamugisha Kakuru, Director of Kick Corruption out of Uganda, emphasized that the martyrs gave up everything, including their lives out of love for Jesus and humanity, refusing to surrender to the king.
“It is unfortunate that most of today’s leaders lack transparency, accountability, and integrity in their public service. As followers of Jesus and leaders in Christianity, they should strive to emulate ethical values such as love, honesty, generosity, and commitment,” Byamugisha said.
He added that the absence of these values has fostered a culture of poor governance characterized by corruption, violence, intimidation, illegal arrests, and the abuse of power, undermining both democracy and public trust.
Ndorwa East MP, Hon. Wilfred Niwagaba, noted that the Uganda Martyrs stood courageously against monarchical oppression due to their unwavering faith in the true God.
He urged Ugandans to draw inspiration from their sacrifice and to resist societal injustices, becoming champions of a more just society.
Kabale Municipality MP, Hon. Dr. Nicholas Kamara, echoed this sentiment, saying the martyrs died for principles such as honesty, courage, integrity, and faith. He criticized Uganda’s current political environment, stating that most politicians prioritize personal survival over citizens’ welfare.
“The only politician today who truly embodies the values of the Uganda Martyrs is Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is currently incarcerated in Luzira Prison on multiple charges,” Kamara stated.
Former Kabale Municipality MP Andrew Aja Baryayanga urged Ugandans to honor the martyrs by standing for truth, justice, and unity. He called on citizens to recommit themselves to building a country rooted in service, dignity, and inclusive progress.
Stephen Byaruhanga, a parliamentary hopeful for Kabale Municipality, said the Uganda Martyrs’ sacrifice teaches that leadership should transcend religious affiliations. He reminded Ugandans that the martyrs, executed under Kabaka Mwanga II, came from diverse religious backgrounds.
Dan Nabaasa Musinguzi, also a Kabale Municipality MP hopeful, encouraged Ugandans to find strength in the Martyrs’ story and to stand up for their beliefs.
Another Kabale Municipality MP aspirant, Michael Byamungu, called on Christians to uphold the values of faith, forgiveness, and service exemplified by the martyrs.
Grace Ankunda Bekunda Bwesigye, the Kabale District Woman MP hopeful, urged Ugandans to use Martyrs Day as an opportunity to unite in memory of their courage and to draw inspiration from their unwavering spirit.
The incumbent Kabale District Woman MP, Hon. Catheline Atwakiire Ndamira, encouraged Ugandans never to forget the bravery of the Uganda Martyrs and to strive to build a nation worthy of their legacy.
Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, the Rubanda District Woman MP hopeful, asked Ugandans to be inspired by the martyrs’ steadfast devotion and to uphold the values of faith, courage, and resilience.
Jacqueline Katabazi, another Rubanda District Woman MP hopeful, said Ugandans should emulate the Uganda Martyrs, who gave their lives for a greater cause, by striving to create a better world.
Rubanda West MP Hon. Moses Kamuntu Mwongyera called on citizens to honor the courage and conviction of the martyrs by upholding principles of justice, equality, and democracy.
Rubanda District LC5 Chairman, Stephen Ampeire Kasyaba, emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from the martyrs’ unwavering determination in standing firm for their beliefs.
Dr. Sylvia Alinaitwe Mwanaki, Deputy Managing Director of National Water and Sewerage Corporation and Rukiga District Woman MP hopeful, urged Ugandans to stand for what they believe in as they celebrate Martyrs Day.
Rukiga District Woman MP, Hon. Caroline Kamusiime Muhwezi, encouraged Ugandans to honor the martyrs’ bold sacrifice in remaining true to their beliefs.
Senior economist and lawyer, Kiconco Patrick Katabaazi, a Rukiga County MP hopeful, said he is particularly moved by the martyrs’ courage to stand for what is right, regardless of consequences.
“Their unwavering resolve offers a beacon of hope and calls on us to reflect deeply on our own actions,” he added.
The Uganda Martyrs were a group of 45 Christians, both Catholic and Anglican who were executed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II. They were killed for defying the king’s demands, including sexual submission, and for adhering to the Christian faith, which the king perceived as a threat to his authority.
In 1964, Pope Paul VI canonized 22 of the Catholic martyrs, cementing their legacy within the global Christian community. Their sacrifice is commemorated annually on June 3rd, attracting pilgrims from Uganda and beyond.
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