KISORO UGANDA: The Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Uganda, the Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on Ugandans to remain united regardless of their political affiliations and to accept election outcomes peacefully, urging those who feel defeated to turn to the Church as a path of spiritual restoration and “God’s rehabilitation.”
Archbishop Kazimba made the remarks on Friday afternoon while addressing thousands of Christians gathered at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Seseme in Northern Division, Kisoro Municipality, during his two-day farewell visit to Muhabura Diocese. The visit is part of a wider pastoral tour as he prepares for retirement next year.
Archbishop Kazimba, who has led the Church of Uganda since 2020, is expected to retire in August 2027 in accordance with the Church’s Constitution, which sets the mandatory retirement age at 65. His farewell visit to Muhabura Diocese is being seen as a historic moment and part of a structured leadership transition within the Anglican Church.
He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality he received from Christians in Kisoro upon his arrival at Kisoro Airport. He noted that he left Namirembe in Kampala at 6:00 a.m. but arrived in Kisoro around 11:00 a.m. due to programme adjustments.
The Archbishop urged Christians to avoid divisions fueled by politics, noting that God is above all human differences, including football rivalries such as Arsenal and Liverpool, as well as political affiliations.
He encouraged believers to trust in Jesus in all situations and to remain focused on serving God rather than becoming consumed by post-election divisions.
He further emphasized that the future of the Church, politics, and government belongs to the people, adding that there is no reason for Christians to abandon their faith. He called for continued unity, saying, “united we stand, divided we fall.”
Archbishop Kazimba also appreciated the Bishop of Muhabura Diocese, Rt. Rev. Godfrey Mbitse, for mobilizing Christians to welcome him. He revealed that he travelled with Rev. Johnson Kansiime, who is assisting him in his pastoral duties.
He explained that his wife, Margaret Kazimba, was unable to accompany him as she is preparing to undergo physiotherapy following a recent operation.
The Archbishop further encouraged Anglicans to work together with members of other denominations to promote peace, unity, and development, stressing that cooperation is essential for national progress.
Meanwhile, Bishop Mbitse urged Christians to put into practice the teachings shared by the Archbishop and thanked the people of Kisoro for their unity and hospitality during the visit.
