The Kabale Diocese Pastoral Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Fidelis Ndagijimana, has warned against the dangers of divisive politics, stating that such rhetoric and actions erode trust in institutions, leaders and the political process as a whole.
Divisive politics refers to strategies or actions that deepen societal splits, often along lines of identity, ideology, or interests. These tactics exploit social, economic, or cultural differences to gain support or consolidate power, often at the expense of unity and peace.
Fr. Ndagijimana issued the warning on Sunday during a ceremony to officially open the Holy Door and commission Mutolere Deanery as the third Pilgrimage Center in Kabale Diocese as part of the 2025 Jubilee Year.
The event was held at St. George Pre and Primary School in Nyakabande Sub-county, Kisoro District. The Mass was led by the Vicar General of Kabale Diocese, Msgr. John Vianney Sunday.
In his Homily, Rev. Fr. Ndagijimana noted that divisive politics can lead to heightened conflict, violence, and social unrest, especially when certain groups feel marginalized or excluded. He emphasized that such politics undermine national unity and foster an “us versus them” mentality, which harms societal harmony.
He further warned that divisive politics hinder effective governance, as partisan interests often stall meaningful policymaking. He said, they foster discrimination and exclusion, particularly against minority groups or individuals with differing views. He urged all Ugandans of sound mind to reject such divisive tendencies.
Rev. Fr. Ndagijimana also decried what he described as a decline in the effectiveness and influence of parenting in modern society. He observed that many parents are less engaged in their children’s lives, education, and emotional well-being, which undermines proper upbringing.
He added that some parents struggle to set boundaries, provide discipline, or offer adequate guidance—resulting in children lacking respect and discipline. He encouraged parents to embrace their full responsibilities if their children are to grow into impactful citizens.
Rev. Fr. Joseph Sebatwale, Dean of Mutolere Deanery, urged the congregation to use the Holy Door as a spiritual gateway for transformation in their lives and families.
Asigariyo Turyagyenda, head of the laity in Mutolere Deanery, commended the Kabale Diocese and Bishop Callist Rubaramira for the Pilgrimage program, a key part of the Jubilee Year activities.
He said the initiative will restore hope among many Christians, which is essential for building a stronger Church and community. He also praised the diocese’s development efforts through people-centered initiatives under the Caritas program.
Kabale Diocese is currently establishing Pilgrimage Centers across its various deaneries as part of the 2025 Jubilee Year, under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” The commissioning of a Pilgrimage Center involves the opening of a Principal Door, allowing pilgrims to pass through and receive a plenary indulgence.
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1471), an indulgence is the remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven. To obtain an indulgence—whether plenary or partial—three conditions must be met: sacramental confession, reception of the Holy Eucharist, and prayers for the intentions of the Pope.
So far, Kabale Diocese has opened Pilgrimage Centers at:
- Makiro Deanery (Kanungu District): comprising Makiro, Karambi, Rutenga, Nyamwegabira, Kambuga, Butogota, Rushoroza, and Nyamirama parishes.
- Nyakibale Deanery (Rukungiri District): covering Rwengiri, Rwamagara, Rutooma, Christ the King, Nyakibale, Ndama, and Buyanja parishes.
- Mutolere Deanery (Kisoro District): newly commissioned today, consisting of Mutolere, Gatete, Gisoro, Rubuguri, Kinanira, Sooko, Muhanga, and Nyagisozi parishes. Thousands of Catholics gathered at the Mutolere Parish Church for the event.
