Uganda’s Catholic Bishops call for peaceful elections amid rising campaign violence

Christopher Kisekka - Kampala

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’ March 2025 Pastoral Letter entitled The Truth Will Set You Free, which expressed expectations for fair, ethical, and peaceful elections.

Escalating of election violence

“As 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,” the Bishops stated.

They specifically called on the Electoral Commission “to demonstrate effective control of the electoral process” and on security agencies “to stick to their roles of keeping law and order and desist from violent acts that injure and kill voters.” Such acts, they warned, threaten Uganda’s fragile democracy and require accountability through disciplinary measures or courts.

The Bishops expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence during the campaign period. While noting that the campaigns “were relatively peaceful at the beginning,” they observed that “they are becoming violent every passing day, largely due to the involvement of the security agencies, including the army.”

Abide by electoral laws.

Contrasting these developments with the Christmas message of peace, love, reconciliation, and “Emmanuel – God with us,” the Bishops invoked biblical teachings on compassion and peacemaking, urging repentance and a return to moral values amid broader challenges like inequality and corruption.

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.

Each year, the Catholic Bishops’ Christmas message offers spiritual reflection and moral guidance on national issues. This year’s coincides with intense campaigning ahead of the polls, where incumbent President Yoweri Museveni seeks re-election against challengers including Bobi Wine.

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.