The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on Christians to reconcile and unite, despite divisions caused by the ongoing elections.
Speaking at the opening of the four-day Annual Brethren’s Conference in Kabale, he emphasised the need for harmony as children of God.
“Brothers and sisters, though division has plagued us for years, the call today is clear: we must reconcile and set aside our enmities. Jesus is the ultimate fountain of peace,” he said, citing the angelic message at His birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and peace among His people.”
The conference, being held under the theme “Jesus Is Our Peace,” derived from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Chapter 2, Verse 14, is a timely reminder of the importance of peace and unity.
Archbishop Kaziimba stressed that true peace with one another begins with peace with God, saying, “In these times, our primary calling is to cultivate a deep relationship with God… This is a season for reconciliation, repentance, renewal, and revival. When we are right with God, we find the strength to remain at peace with each other regardless of political party or personal difference.”
He urged dialogue, humility, and prayer for reconciliation, adding, “Politics must not divide us. An election is only a passing moment, it should not leave a permanent scar. I invite you to a season of reconciliation. It is time to let go of the past. As children of God, there is no room for division among us. Many of the leaders we supported have moved on, yet we remain here together. Even if our clergy were divided, we must refuse to live in the past. Now is the time for forgiveness. Everyone has the right to their own choice, but no one has the right to hate. Let us not be divided by tribe, for our diversity was authored by God Himself.”
The Archbishop, who is also on a four-day pastoral and farewell visit to the diocese ahead of his retirement next year, called on winners to celebrate with maturity and humility, honoring God without provoking others, while offering hope to the defeated.
“If you or your candidate were successful, celebrate with maturity and grace. Do not use your joy as a weapon to provoke those who are grieving a loss; remember that all authority and victory ultimately come from God. For those who did not win, remember that there is still hope. As we rejoice, let our focus be on gratitude to God rather than triumph over our neighbor,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of forgiveness and letting go of past differences, saying, “Let us forgive one another and move forward in love, compassion, and understanding, just as God forgives us through Jesus Christ.”
The Archbishop’s message is a call to action for Christians to prioritize peace, unity, and reconciliation, especially in the face of division and discord.