The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has appealed to political leaders across the country to promote peace and reject violence as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections.
Delivering a message of unity and hope during Easter Carols and Holy Communion prayers held at Parliament on Thursday, April 10, 2025, Archbishop Kaziimba called on politicians to avoid the divisive and violent conduct that marred the recent by-election in Kawempe Division North.
“Respect for one another should be promoted and character assassination eradicated. Even if you are from different political parties, you are still one,” the Archbishop emphasized.
The service, which brought together Members of Parliament, parliamentary staff, and selected members of the public, served as both a spiritual reflection and a national call for reconciliation ahead of a critical election season.
Kaziimba stressed that true leadership lies in finding unity through disagreement, adding that a good leader ensures that all sides feel heard and valued, even after a heated political debate.
He noted that a good leader uses every issue to ensure that at the end of a debate, everyone emerges victorious.
Drawing from the biblical narrative of Christ, Kaziimba likened the journey of political leaders to that of Jesus—persecuted yet steadfast, and ultimately victorious through trust in God. He urged leaders not to lose hope, but instead to look to Christ’s resurrection as a symbol of triumph over adversity.
“Politics has been in existence since the time of Christ and his death was politically motivated. His resurrection however helps us to know that there is hope. We as Christians should not lose hope,” Kaziimba said.
Representing Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa at the event, Government Chief Whip, Hon. Hamson Obua, echoed the archbishop’s message, encouraging Christians and political leaders alike to focus on finishing well, rather than simply starting strong.
“The last three days of Christ were characterised by anguish and agony; he was mocked, but at the end, he overcame all these through resurrection. In all we do, it is not the start that matters – it is the end that matters,” Obua stated.
Obua also applauded the growing vibrancy of the Christian community within Parliament and praised Rev. Gillian Okello, the Anglican Chaplain of Parliament, for her dedication in sustaining the spiritual momentum within the institution.
