Archbishop Dr. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu with Rev. Can. Simon Peter Dembe Lya Yesu on his left.
By George Bukenya
Church of Uganda Archbishop Dr. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu has urged politicians to respect and tolerate one another, saying this will help ensure peace and security in the country.
He condemned acts of political violence, bloodshed, hypocrisy, and domestic violence that take people’s lives while leaving others severely injured.
The Archbishop announced three days of national prayer gatherings aimed at praying for the country to prepare for peaceful and transparent general elections, as we seek God’s mercy in the face of national challenges such as the Kasese attacks and floods, and landslides that have devastated many parts of the country.
According to the chairman organizing committee, Rev. Can. Simon Peter Dembe Lya Yesu, the Prayers will take place at the Anglican Namugogo Martyrs Shrine, starting from November 19th to 22nd, and are expected to attract 5,000 worshipers.
He encouraged all Ugandans to attend and participate in praying for their nation, which will be under the theme: “Arise and Play for Your Generation’’.
Archbishop Kazimba made the call at a time when the country is facing several challenges, including floods and landslides in Bundibugyo District, attacks in Kasese, and increased political tension ahead of the election
“This is the time to pray for our country so that we go through peaceful, free, and fair elections. I encourage all Ugandans to be peacekeepers,” Dr. Kazimba Mugalu emphasized
Dr. Kazimba further called upon all political leaders at different levels to respect one another and to conduct them honorably so that politics does not divide the nation.
“Value self-respect and respect for one another. When we uphold dignity and unity, we remain one people — because politics is only temporary,” Dr. Kazimba urged.
The Archbishop also emphasized the need to pray for people who have been buried by landslides and for those affected by the recent attacks in Kasese District.
He also expressed concern over the floods that have hit Kampala City, causing severe disruption, and urged engineers and city planners to take serious steps to manage the situation better and protect the lives and property of residents.
“The floods have greatly affected traders in Kampala. I advise the city authorities to take deliberate action to improve drainage systems and ensure such disasters do not continue to harm people,” Kazimba added.
He raised concern about the increasing road accidents across the country, which have continued to claim innocent lives. He called upon all drivers to avoid reckless driving and to take responsibility for road safety.
“Do not mix politics with religion. Those who do so should stop and uphold respect, “Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu
Finally, Archbishop Kazimba invited all Ugandans to participate in the upcoming national prayer gathering, which will be graced by retired Archbishop Rt. Rev. Luke Orombi.
“We invite everyone to take part in this prayer gathering and to support it in every possible way, including financially, “Archbishop Kazimba concluded
Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu, Rev.Can. Simon Peter Dembe Lya Yesu, and chairman organizing committee Oscar Sabiiti Kagonyera, center, with other committee members