Vote leaders who honour national motto—Bishop Odama

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Archbishop Emeritus John Baptist Odama has reminded the electorate that voting is a sacred responsibility, warning that every Christian will individually account to God for the leaders they place in power.

Speaking during Mass at Holy Rosary Church in Gulu city on Sunday (January 11), the Archbishop Emeritus urged Ugandans to carefully scrutinise the manifestos of those seeking office to ensure they align with the national motto, "For God and My Country."

While celebrating the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, Bishop Odama emphasised that the responsibility for the nation’s future rests squarely with voters.

He noted that the national motto provides a clear benchmark for leadership and challenged the faithful to reflect on which political manifestos genuinely uphold its values.

He asked Christians to consider whether candidates were acting as true ambassadors of God and questioned which manifestos they had found to be truly good.

Bishop Odama suggested that if political aspirants acted with humility and recognised that they were not serving God’s will, they would have the integrity to withdraw from the race.

The Archbishop Emeritus observed that humanity has strayed from listening to the will of God, making it even more important for Christians to actively and responsibly participate in the forthcoming elections.

Turning to the election period, Bishop Odama described the campaigns as a critical moment for the country and expressed concern over reports of violence in different parts of Uganda.

He said mistakes had been made during the campaign process and called on believers to kneel in repentance, seek God’s forgiveness and pray for peaceful elections.

He appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that actions taken during the campaigns and elections safeguard the future of children, the youth, women, the elderly and leaders alike.

Bishop Odama concluded with a warning that if the electoral process fails to prioritise the well-being of the people, then the nation is effectively cheating God.

His message came as the Diocese of Gulu marked 75 years of existence.

While acknowledging the achievements registered over the decades, the Archbishop Emeritus reminded Christians that these milestones were attained amid numerous challenges.

He called on believers to return to the path of righteousness and ensure their political choices reflect commitment to God’s will and the future of the country.