The Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Rt Rev Joseph Antony Zziwa, has urged government to consider releasing individuals detained on political grounds and to establish a lasting framework for national reconciliation.
In his Easter Pastoral Message delivered on Saturday in Nsambya, Zziwa who doubles as the Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese emphasized the need to foster constitutionalism, justice, and the rule of law as foundations for lasting peace.
Bishop Zziwa referenced last year’s pastoral letter by Catholic bishops titled “The Truth Will Set You Free,” noting that genuine reconciliation requires acknowledgment of wrongdoing and repentance. He called on Christians to use the Easter season as a time to seek forgiveness and rebuild relationships.
He observed that the recent presidential and general elections left the country deeply divided, with some Ugandans losing their lives, others sustaining injuries, and many left traumatized or detained due to their political beliefs.
The Bishop also conveyed warm greetings from Pope Leo XIV, whom the Ugandan bishops met during their Ad Limina Apostolorum visit in March. During the meeting, the bishops presented a report on the state of the Church in Uganda and reaffirmed their unity and commitment to the global Church.
According to Bishop Zziwa, the Pope commended the growth of the Catholic Church in Uganda, highlighting the increasing number of clergy and religious, as well as the dedication of the laity. He also extended his Apostolic Blessing to the country and its people.
The message was echoed by various dicasteries of the Holy See, which praised the Church’s work in Uganda and prayed for its continued progress.
Reflecting on the significance of Easter, Bishop Zziwa described it as a profound moment in the Christian faith, symbolizing God’s unconditional love revealed through the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He noted that the Lenten period, marked by prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, prepares believers to embrace a renewed life rooted in Christ. However, he stressed that Christians are called to go beyond these practices and live out their faith through love and service to others.
Drawing from the parable of the Good Samaritan, he explained that a neighbour is anyone in need of love and compassion, including those who may be considered enemies.
In light of ongoing political divisions, economic challenges, and moral concerns in society, Bishop Zziwa urged Christians to be true witnesses of Christ by embodying the fruits of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control.
“As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, let us allow the power of His love to transform our hearts, families, communities, and nation,” he said.
He called on Ugandans to embrace forgiveness, promote healing, and build bridges of peace, drawing inspiration from the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi to become instruments of peace, hope, and unity.
Bishop Zziwa encouraged Christians to live as true disciples of the Risen Christ, so that their actions may reflect His presence and inspire peace in society.
