The Church of Uganda has called for calm, unity, and responsible civic participation during the upcoming election season in a strongly-worded pastoral letter issued by the Archbishop, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.
Titled “Pastoral Letter on Peace and Harmony During the Election Period in Uganda,” the message addresses citizens, political leaders, security agencies, and the Electoral Commission, urging all stakeholders to uphold peace, justice, and democratic values as the country heads toward the 2026 general elections.
“Elections often stir emotions, awaken old wounds, and tempt us to treat one another as enemies,” the letter reads. “Yet our common identity as God’s people must remain stronger than any division.”
Call for Peace and Civic Responsibility
The bishops encouraged Ugandans to be “peacemakers in families, churches, communities, and political spaces,” quoting Scripture and prominent figures such as Desmond Tutu and Julius Nyerere. They reminded Christians that “blessed are the peacemakers” and that political engagement must be grounded in justice, mercy, and humility.
The letter reaffirms citizens’ constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to vote, and emphasizes that these freedoms must be exercised responsibly. “With every right comes a duty,” the bishops stated, urging voters to avoid violence, bribery, and insults, and to respect differing views.
Appeal to Leaders
The pastoral letter issued pointed messages to national leaders:
- To the Government and Security Agencies: The Church called for neutrality and professionalism, urging security forces to “remain guardians of peace, not sources of fear.” Citizens must be protected, not silenced, the bishops emphasized.
- To the Electoral Commission: The bishops demanded transparency, impartiality, and the announcement of accurate results to uphold public confidence and national harmony.
- To Political Candidates: Leaders were urged to campaign with dignity and to avoid inflaming tensions. The Church condemned all forms of electoral malpractice including voter bribery, intimidation, and the misuse of money.
- To Community Leaders: They were called to act as “voices of reconciliation, not division,” reminding them that leadership is a responsibility, not a tool for personal gain.
“Elections should not divide us but strengthen our unity and shared destiny,” the letter states.
A Message to Ugandan Citizens
To the general public, the Church warned against being used for political violence and urged citizens to resist divisive rhetoric. “No life is worth losing for partisan politics,” the bishops said. They emphasized the need for mutual respect and reconciliation, regardless of political outcome.
“Elections are not the end; there is life after elections. Whether one’s candidate wins or loses, we remain one family, bound by a shared hope for Uganda,” the letter read.
Concern Over Teachers’ Strike
The Church also expressed concern over the ongoing teachers’ industrial action, citing its negative impact on learners, especially in public schools. It urged the government and educators to reach an immediate resolution.
“Our children are missing valuable learning opportunities, left idle, and exposed to risks such as teenage pregnancies and alcoholism,” the bishops warned. In the meantime, they encouraged parents and teachers to find alternative ways to support students, particularly those in candidate classes.
Final Exhortation
The letter closes with a spiritual appeal to all Ugandans to let peace, justice, and love guide their actions during this critical season. Referencing the Church of Uganda’s 2026 theme, “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Stability, and Peace,” the bishops called on the nation to remain rooted in Christian values.
“This election season is a test of our Christian maturity and our love for Uganda. May justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream.”
The pastoral letter was signed by Archbishop Kaziimba in his capacity as Chair of the House of Bishops, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to being the “conscience of society.”
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