The Archbishop of the Kampala Archdiocese, Paul Ssemogerere, has called on political leaders, security agencies, and all political actors to uphold peace, respect for human rights, and the rule of law ahead of the 2026 general elections.
While leading Christmas Mass at Rubaga Cathedral, Archbishop Ssemogerere said it is the responsibility of every Ugandan, especially leaders to ensure peace during the ongoing campaigns, on polling day, and after the elections.
He warned that the selective application of the law is a major source of injustice and unrest, particularly during the current campaign period.
‘No authority, uniform, or office grants anyone the right to torture, degrade, or unlawfully harm another human being. The rule of law must be applied consistently, without fear or favour. History reminds us that when the law becomes selective, the nation drifts into fear and instability,’ he said.
Archbishop Ssemogerere reminded Ugandans that elections are a defining national moment.
‘In a few weeks, on January 15, Ugandans will go to the polls. Elections are not just political events; they are monumental moments. Let us remember who we are and treat one another with dignity. Political leaders must put the nation above self, reject incitement, and speak words that heal rather than divide,’ he said.
He also appealed to security agencies to execute their duties with honesty and fairness, in strict adherence to the law, and to fulfil their core mandate of protecting life and property.
Violence, he said, has no place in Ugandan society and must be condemned and avoided in the strongest terms.
‘The Electoral Commission must act with transparency and dignity so as to inspire public confidence. Uganda does not need enemies within; it needs unity,’ he said.
He added: ‘Uganda needs calm hearts, responsible leadership, and a shared commitment to the common good. As we approach January 15, let us choose dialogue over conflict, law over lawlessness, and unity over division so that whatever the outcome, our nation remains together.’
The Archbishop’s message comes three days after the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, in his December 22 Christmas message, condemned ongoing political violence targeting opposition actors.
‘Many of our people have been harmed, including beatings, blocking candidates from reaching campaign venues, and other illegal acts and human rights violations,’ the Kabaka said.
Meanwhile, five Secretary Generals of political parties under the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) have also jointly condemned security brutality against candidates and supporters during the ongoing campaigns.
In a Christmas message, IPOD said such actions undermine the electoral process and erode public trust.
‘IPOD unequivocally condemns acts of brutality, excessive force, or intimidation by security agencies during political campaigns and electoral activities. Such actions undermine democratic principles and the right of citizens to freely participate in political processes,’ said Dr Gerald Siranda, IPOD Council Chairperson and Secretary General of the Democratic Party (DP).
The condemnation by religious, cultural, and political leaders comes amid growing concern over reports of violence against opposition figures, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Mr Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, and his supporters.
One of the most notable incidents occurred earlier this month when security personnel blocked Mr Kyagulanyi from accessing a scheduled campaign venue in Gulu and allegedly assaulted him and his supporters.
Christmas Mass at Rubaga Cathedral was attended by several dignitaries, including Mr Kyagulanyi and his wife, Barbie Itungo Kyagulanyi; the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, and his wife; and the State Minister for Higher Education, Dr Chrysostom Muyingo, among others.