Elections 2026: Tororo Archbishop calls for peaceful campaigns

___________________

"If you're a thug hired to disorganise others in this period of elections, just know you're in the wrong place and working against the will of the nation that embraced peace to reign long time ago," Archbishop of Tororo, Dr Emmanuel Obbo, warned on Saturday. 

He also issued a passionate appeal to Christians to reject violent politics and instead adopt a culture of peaceful discussion as Uganda prepares for the 2026 elections.

In his address at the second family day celebration of the Archdiocese of Tororo in Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, Nyangole, the Archbishop stressed the importance of prioritising ideas over conflict to promote national unity.

The event, themed "Together we can as pilgrims of Hope," saw Archbishop Obbo directly address the rising tensions and reported instances of political violence associated with the ongoing campaigns as he warned against the dangers of "politics of militia", arguing that it risks bloodshed and undermines national development. 

"The politics of militia should be denounced because it will lead us into disunity, which isn't what we desire. Instead, let's embrace the politics of ideas that can build this Nation of ours," he said.

The Archbishop further urged Ugandans to uphold the country’s motto, "For God and My Country," as he cautioned those engaging in violence. 

The Archbishop's message of peace and unity resonated with other leaders present at the celebration. Kwar Adhola Stephen Moses Owor, the cultural leader of the Teing Adhola cultural institution, echoed the Archbishop's call, stating, “We must build bridges, not walls. Only by prioritising unity can we achieve genuine progress, not only in our faith but also within the development of our communities."

Similarly, Ikumbania wa-Bugwere, the cultural leader of the Bugwere Kingdom, emphasised the need for unity in diversity, urging his subjects to "disassociate themselves from the divisive forces of tribalism, religious bias, and political affiliations," adding that a united populace would guarantee progress.

The celebration also served as an opportunity to highlight the Archdiocese's upcoming project to construct a multi-billion-shilling cathedral in Nyangole Hill, Tororo. Here, Archbishop Obbo appealed to his congregation for their support, saying, "The dream has come, and a new cathedral has to be built. It’s my prayer that you support me in erecting it so that I am able to see it with my eyes while I am still alive."

Adding to the call for social responsibility, the guest of honour, Prof. George Kamba, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, encouraged the attendees to extend their charitable hands beyond the church and support those in need within their communities. “Building a strong society necessitates more than just our faith; it demands that we assist those around us who need support.”.