The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, has emphasized the need for strict adherence to the law as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections.
Delivering his Christmas message during Mass at Lubaga Cathedral, Archbishop Ssemogerere warned that deviations from lawful conduct by both those in authority and ordinary citizens undermine the principles of the rule of law, peace, and justice—values the country continues to strive to restore from past challenges.
He reminded the faithful that in March 2025, the Uganda Episcopal Conference issued a Pastoral Letter providing guidance on national affairs, with particular focus on the forthcoming general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026.
Despite this guidance, he noted with concern that the country has witnessed unnecessary scenes marked by abuse of justice and violations of human rights, particularly by some government officials and security agencies.
Addressing the Electoral Commission, Archbishop Ssemogerere stressed that the Commission bears the responsibility of organizing free, fair, and credible elections that genuinely reflect the will of the people.
He equally urged political actors and their supporters to exercise restraint and refrain from unlawful conduct during the electoral process.
Turning to the youth, who constitute the largest segment of Uganda’s population, the Archbishop said their widespread unemployment and inactivity should not be viewed solely as an economic issue but also as a moral and spiritual challenge.
He called on all stakeholders to address the matter with seriousness and sobriety.
On the meaning of Christmas, Archbishop Ssemogerere lamented that society has betrayed the true spirit of the celebration.
He cited vices such as corruption, greed, drunk driving leading to road carnage, criminality, domestic violence, hatred, and obscenity, saying these have overshadowed the self-reflection expected of Christians, who are called to live as temples of God.
He further warned that excessive use of the internet and social media has weakened family bonds, noting that the family is the primary school of life, discipline, and faith.
According to the Archbishop, social media has increasingly taken over the role of transmitting values, traditionally entrusted to elders, a trend he said must be checked.
The Christmas Mass at Lubaga Cathedral was attended by several dignitaries, including the Katikiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga, former Katikiro Joseph Mulwanyamuli Ssemogerere, Prince David Wasajja, National Unity Platform President Robert Kyagulanyi, and State Minister for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo.
By Francis Jjunju
25th Dec 2025
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