Kasese Bishop Kibira calls for responsible leadership

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Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira of the Kasese Catholic Diocese, which was slated to take the lead in the 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day national celebrations, has urged believers in the entire world to emulate the Uganda martyrs by being responsible leaders.

The diocese was slated to take the lead in the 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day national celebrations at Namugongo near Kampala.

The annual event that attracts believers from all over the world was cancelled to deter the spread of Ebola hemorrhagic fever.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Health cautioned against huge gatherings.

In Kasese, the high mass on Wednesday was held at Our Lady of Assumption, Kasese District-based Catholic Cathedral.

Some of the most devoted believers at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, located within Kasese Municipality, wholeheartedly expressed their Martyrs Day emotions and feelings during mass. (Credit: Samuel Amanyire)

Under the theme "Christ is alive in you and me", Kibira called on believers to become “martyrs of truth,” urging them to uphold integrity and remain steadfast in their faith.

The service was conducted in line with Ministry of Health guidelines, including handwashing and social distancing, amid concerns about the spread of Ebola.

Cautioning leaders to fight against corruption and end all forms of speaking ill talk and rumours, the bishop added that, 

"The Bible strongly condemn such acts, yet our motto tells us that the fear of God is the source of Wisdom," Kibira said.



He used the same opportunity to announce that Kasese had been given another opportunity to lead the forthcoming 2027 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo in Kampala, adding that this is a great opportunity to reorganise.

"We were all set to handle the day, only to be disappointed by the Ebola virus, but nevertheless, next year we shall be completely be good to go," Kibira explained. 

Joseph Nzukwa, steering committee for the Kasese Namugongo 2026 celebrations, revealed that Several committees had been installed to ensure the success of the day.

"Among the teams included the clergy, choirs and over 2,000 pilgrims from DR Congo, who had committed themselves to join the Kasese team and match up to Namugongo," Nzukwa said.

He also commended individuals, organisations and government for the support from the overwhelming support towards the function, adding that next year will all be a simple task for them.

Believers in Kasese District embarked on attending mass in their local churches, strongly and spiritually reflecting on what happens at Namugongo every June 3.

Queen Gonda Asiimwe, the Chairperson of Laity, Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, located in Kasese Municipality, confirmed the development shortly after mass.