During the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at the Namugongo Catholic Shrine, Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere of the Kampala Archdiocese delivered a powerful message urging Ugandans—especially political leaders—to embrace peace, unity, and servant leadership as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.
Speaking to thousands of pilgrims, the Archbishop emphasized the need for a democratic culture centered on healing and dialogue rather than division and domination.
“Our democracy must heal, not harm; it must unite, not divide,” he said. “We must listen, not silence.”
He further urged the faithful and the wider nation to reject hatred, tribalism, and divisive rhetoric that threaten the country’s social cohesion.
“Let us reject hatred, division, and violence, and say no to unjust tribalism and offensive language. We are all children of God,” he declared.
Ssemogerere’s call comes at a pivotal moment as political parties begin to gear up for the 2026 electoral cycle. He reminded leaders that building a strong and peaceful nation requires unity and humility, not enmity born of competition.
Meanwhile, at the Anglican Shrine in Namugongo, President Yoweri Museveni—serving as Guest of Honour—also spoke on the theme of national unity. He cautioned against tribalism and sectarianism, warning that these divisions undermine economic development.
“Some people spend a lot of time talking about tribes and denominational differences, but our question is this—will those groups be able to absorb all the products that we, the wealth creators, produce?” Museveni asked.
He argued that inclusive national markets, rather than fragmented identity-based ones, are key to Uganda’s economic prosperity.
“History and common sense show us that tribal and sectarian markets are not big enough to guarantee our prosperity. The national market of Uganda will do it better,” he added.
Uganda Martyrs Day, commemorated annually on June 3, honors the 45 Catholic and Anglican converts who were martyred between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II. The day continues to draw millions of pilgrims from across the region and serves as a powerful reflection on faith, unity, and national identity.
