As Uganda observes Christmas against the backdrop of an active election period, religious leaders have renewed calls for restraint, unity, and peaceful coexistence, reminding citizens that national stability and human life outweigh political competition.
The Presiding Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC), Rt. Rev. Jacinto Kibuuka, has urged the public, security agencies, and political actors to prioritize peace and calm throughout the ongoing electoral process, noting that the Christmas season amplifies the need for harmony and reconciliation.
Bishop Kibuuka made the appeal while delivering his Christmas homily at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Namugongo, Janda, where hundreds of worshippers gathered to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.
He emphasized that elections are a temporary phase in national life, while the values of peace, respect for human dignity, and faith endure beyond political cycles.
The Bishop reminded Christians that Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Prince of Peace, sent by God to bring reconciliation to humanity.
“Above all elections, there is God who sent us the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth today, peace should be our priority, especially in this tough election period,” Bishop Kibuuka said.
He specifically appealed to security officers, young people, and the wider public to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate tension or violence during the elections.
“I urge the security officers and the general public, especially the youth, to keep calm during these general elections. I see no reason why security organs should use excessive force. Violence only causes more pain. Uganda will remain even after elections, so let us work for peace as the Prince of Peace is born,” he said.
Bishop Kibuuka further explained that peace is not only a national responsibility but also a personal and family obligation that grows outward into society.
The Bishop added that peace begins with individuals and families before spreading to communities and the nation at large.
“When you have peace, you bring peace to your family, your village, your district, and the nation by not oppressing others or engaging in crime,” he noted.
Turning to the spiritual meaning of the season, Bishop Kibuuka explained that Christmas offers believers an opportunity for deep reflection, repentance, and moral renewal.
He encouraged Christians to use the occasion to examine their lives honestly and abandon habits and behaviors that undermine their faith and relationships.
“Celebrating Christmas means making resolutions to leave sin and bad behaviours behind and choosing to change for good. Ask yourself how many Christmases you still have. This is the time to change urgently, not tomorrow,” he said.
He further urged believers to intensify prayer, embrace godly principles in their daily lives, and take immediate steps toward positive transformation.
In addition, Bishop Kibuuka invited Christians and members of the public to attend a Cross Overnight Healing and Deliverance Prayer service scheduled for December 31 at Mamre International Prayer Centre.
He said the prayers would usher participants into lasting spiritual and personal change as they prepare to enter the new year.
He also revealed that the overnight event will feature gospel music performances by renowned artists as well as fireworks to mark the transition into the new year.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was Daniel Kananura, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party flag bearer for Kira Municipality Member of Parliament.
Kananura echoed the Bishop’s call for peace and encouraged the congregation to support the NRM, citing its record in service delivery and the importance of consolidating government achievements.
The Christmas service concluded with collective prayers for peace, national unity, and a calm and orderly electoral process across Uganda.
