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OPINION

By Sadiiki Adams

This year marks 47 years since the martyrdom of Janani Luwum, the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Bishop of Northern Uganda Diocese and a towering figure in the history of Uganda and the global Christian community.

His life and legacy continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the enduring power of faith, courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Born in 1922 at Mucwini in Kitgum district, Luwum’s journey to becoming a religious leader was marked by profound challenges.

Raised in a devout Christian family, Archbishop Luwum’s early years were shaped by the tumultuous colonial era and the struggles of post-independence Uganda. Despite facing poverty and discrimination, he remained steadfast in his commitment to Christian beliefs, eventually answering the call to priesthood.

His rise within the Anglican Church was swift, thanks to his charisma, intelligence and unwavering dedication to social justice. He became Bishop of Northern Uganda in 1969 and was later elected Archbishop of the Church of Uganda succeeding Archbishop Eric Sabiiti in 1974.

He served as archbishop at a time when the country was grappling with political turmoil and human rights abuses under the rule of President Idi Amin. Archbishop Luwum fearlessly spoke out against Amin’s regime, condemning its atrocities and advocating peace and reconciliation.

However, it was his courageous stand against President Amin’s tyranny that sealed his place in history. In February 1977, Archbishop Luwum, along with other religious leaders, presented a petition to President Amin, urging him to end the violence and respect human rights. In response, President Amin accused Archbishop Luwum of treason and ordered his arrest.

Despite pleas for his safety, Archbishop Luwum refused to flee the country, declaring, “I am prepared to die in the army barracks if only my death will bring peace to Uganda.”

On February 16, 1977, Archbishop Luwum was brutally murdered, his death disguised as a car accident. His martyrdom sent shockwaves around the world, sparking outrage and condemnation of Amin’s regime.

His legacy transcends his tragic death. He is remembered as a symbol of moral courage, standing up for justice and righteousness.

Today, as we commemorate Archbishop Janani Luwum, we are reminded of the ongoing struggles for freedom, justice and human dignity.

His legacy serves as a beacon of hope for all those who continue to fight against oppression and injustice, both in Uganda and around the world. His unwavering faith and fearless advocacy inspire us to stand up for what is right, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

In a world beset by conflict, intolerance and division, Archbishop Janani Luwum’s message of love, compassion and reconciliation resonates more strongly than ever.

As we honour his memory, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals for which he lived and died — a world where all people are treated with dignity, equality and respect regardless of their race, religion or background.

The theme for this year’s commemoration is Conforming to the truth of God’s word that transforms” Romans 12:1-2. This doubles as the theme for the Province of the Church of Uganda for the year 2024.

May the courage and conviction of Archbishop Janani Luwum continue to inspire us all to strive for a brighter future and to create a just society and an enabling environment for the gospel to be preached.

The writer is the communications officer, Church of Uganda