While delivering his homily during the Easter mass at Lubaga Cathedral, Archbishop Ssemogerere clarified that the pastoral letter was not intended to single out any individual or group.
Kampala Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere has responded to concerns raised by individuals who feel targeted by the recently released pastoral letter from the Catholic Bishops of Uganda.
The letter, issued by the Uganda Episcopal Conference, has sparked widespread discussion, particularly among political circles, with some politicians interpreting the bishops’ message as a direct attack on them.
While delivering his homily during the Easter mass at Lubaga Cathedral,
Archbishop Ssemogerere clarified that the pastoral letter was not intended to
single out any individual or group. "Our message is not aimed at attacking anyone," he emphasized, urging
those who feel offended to understand the broader context of the bishops'
concerns. Since its release, there have been voices questioning whether the
bishops’ words were directed personally at them.
//Cue in: Basebo nebanyabo...
Cue out: ebilimu bukulu,"//
The pastoral letter, titled “The Truth Will Set You Free,” addressed several
pressing national issues that the bishops believe are dragging Uganda back to
its darkest times. Released on the heels of Uganda’s ongoing societal
challenges, the letter highlights critical concerns about political division,
tribalism, poverty, unemployment, and poor governance. The bishops urge the
government, leaders, and citizens to take immediate action to prevent the
country from backsliding.
While presenting the letter on Apirl 7, 2025, Bishop Joseph Antony Zziwa,
Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, outlined 14 major issues in the
letter, warning that the country’s future is at risk if these issues are not
addressed.
Archbishop Ssemogerere
reaffirmed that the pastoral letter’s message is one of moral guidance, urging
Ugandans to embrace the truth in order to build a more just and prosperous
society. “If we follow the ordinances of God, we shall be liberated,” he said,
echoing the theme of the letter.
//Cue in: "Atte nga..
Cue out: Azukidde nga bweyagamba,"//
A key focus of the pastoral letter is the rise of tribalism and sectarianism,
which the bishops argue have contributed to violence, oppression, and societal
fragmentation. They warned that these divisions have severely hindered the
nation’s progress and unity. Additionally, the bishops expressed grave concerns
over Uganda's democratic process, calling for a political system that respects
human rights, freedom of association, and peaceful coexistence.
The bishops also issued a critical stance on the government's handling of civic
education. While presenting the letter to the press, Bishop Zziwa pointed out
that while voter education is prioritized, broader civic education has been
largely neglected. “Apathy and disengagement from public matters have left many
citizens vulnerable to manipulation," he said, emphasizing the need for an
informed and active citizenry to hold leaders accountable.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, the bishops urged the government
to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. They called for electoral
reforms to address concerns over violence, voter fraud, and unfair practices.
"We must learn from our
past mistakes," the Bishops reminded the public, stressing the importance
of reflecting on the country’s history to avoid repeating dark chapters.
Poverty, corruption, and unemployment were also major themes in the pastoral
letter. The bishops rejected the narrative that poverty is a result of
laziness, highlighting the structural barriers that keep many Ugandans trapped
in poverty.
"The true causes of poverty
lie in an economic system that benefits the wealthy while leaving the poor
behind," they stated, adding that systemic corruption and unequal
distribution of wealth exacerbate the nation’s socio-economic issues.
The bishops further condemned the prevalence of land grabbing and the unjust
accumulation of wealth at the expense of others’ suffering. They called for
more opportunities for youth employment and entrepreneurship, particularly in
agriculture and industry, to address the growing unemployment crisis.
On political prisoners, the bishops condemned the arbitrary arrests and
detentions of individuals critical of the government. They welcomed the Supreme
Court’s ruling against military trials for civilians and called for a more
inclusive political environment where dissent is allowed.
