In their annual Christmas message, Uganda\u2019s Catholic Bishops have urged the Electoral Commission to take firm control of the electoral process and called on security forces to refrain from violence, as the country approaches the general elections scheduled for 15 January 2026.
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Christopher Kisekka – Kampala<\/p>\n
The message, delivered by Bishop Joseph Anthony Zziwa, Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference and Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, draws heavily from the Bishops\u2019 March 2025 Pastoral Letter entitled The Truth Will\u00a0Set\u00a0You Free, which expressed expectations for fair, ethical, and peaceful elections.<\/p>\n
Escalating of election violence <\/p>\n
\u201cAs we draw closer to polling day, we appeal to all stakeholders to play their roles in a manner that promotes the dignity of every Ugandan, regardless of political affiliation,\u201d the Bishops stated.<\/p>\n
They specifically called on the Electoral Commission \u201cto demonstrate effective control of the electoral process\u201d and on security agencies \u201cto stick to their roles of keeping law and order and desist from violent acts that injure and kill voters.\u201d Such acts, they warned, threaten Uganda\u2019s fragile democracy and require accountability through disciplinary measures or courts.<\/p>\n
The Bishops expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence during the campaign period. While noting that the campaigns \u201cwere relatively peaceful at the beginning,\u201d they observed that \u201cthey are becoming violent every passing day, largely due to the involvement of the security agencies, including the army.\u201d<\/p>\n
Abide by electoral laws. <\/p>\n
Contrasting these developments with the Christmas message of peace, love, reconciliation, and \u201cEmmanuel \u2013 God with us,\u201d the Bishops invoked biblical teachings on compassion and peacemaking, urging repentance and a return to moral values amid broader challenges like inequality and corruption.<\/p>\n
The Bishops also addressed political contestants, reminding them of their legal and moral obligations to avoid intensifying conflicts and to abide by electoral laws. They appealed to voters to make informed decisions, reject violence and bribery, and participate in large numbers on election day.<\/p>\n
Each year, the Catholic Bishops\u2019 Christmas message offers spiritual reflection and moral guidance on national issues. This year\u2019s coincides with intense campaigning ahead of the polls, where incumbent President Yoweri Museveni seeks re-election against challengers including Bobi Wine.<\/p>\n
Wishing Ugandans a Merry Christmas and a blessed 2026, the Bishops framed the season as an opportunity for renewal in the context of the Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis.<\/p>\n
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