Assistant Kampala Anglican Bishop Jackson Frederick Baalwa, has urged security agencies to exercise restraint during the ongoing electoral campaigns, cautioning against heavy-handed actions against candidates.
Speaking at a New Year’s service at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, Bishop Baalwa highlighted the importance of peaceful elections and the right of all Ugandans to participate in multiparty politics saying.
‘There is no need to use a gun to kill a mosquito in an era where multiparty politics is allowed,’ he said, in reference to recent clashes between security forces and some candidates, particularly from the National Unity Platform (NUP), over alleged violations of campaign regulations.
Bishop Baalwa also encouraged citizens to vote for leaders committed to the development of Uganda.
‘Please go and vote, and vote for the people who matter and are ready to serve mankind,’ he said, speaking barely two weeks to Uganda’s January 15 General Election.
Former Ethics and Integrity Minister, Ms Miria Matembe, praised the bishop’s remarks as timely, noting the need for leaders of integrity.
‘The Bishop told people to exercise their duty by voting for leaders of character and integrity. Leaders who can render a service that gives God glory, not those who are materialistic and hungry for money,’ she said.
Ms Matembe also raised concerns about the quality of candidates in Kashari County Constituency, Mbarara, alleging that one contender had submitted forged academic documents, undermining the constituency’s legacy of strong leadership.
She further commented on the recent arrest of human rights advocate Ms Sarah Bireete, stressing that it should not deter activists from speaking out against abuse of human rights and rule of law.
‘I have received many calls from people telling me to shut up and stop criticizing the government, saying I will be the next culprit to be arrested. I want to assure them that I will not stop talking,’ she said. ‘We have freedom of speech, and I pray to God to shut their mouth and tie their hands.’
The New Year service drew hundreds of Christians, including First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga as well as State Minister for Disability Affairs, Ms Hellen Asamo.