The Bishop of the Diocese of Namirembe, Moses Banja, has called on Ugandans to actively participate in the 2026 general elections, urging citizens to reject election boycotts and instead turn up in large numbers to vote peacefully.
"Ugandans should turn up in large numbers to vote peacefully and should not boycott the elections," Bishop Banja said.
He made the appeal while delivering his Christmas and New Year message at Namirembe Cathedral, emphasizing peace, unity and national responsibility as the country prepares for the general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026.
"This Christmas and the coming New Year find our country preparing for the general elections," he said, stressing that peace remains fundamental to national stability.
Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines
"Without peace, our nation cannot remain stable. We must avoid actions that divide us as a people," he warned.
Bishop Banja urged citizens, particularly during the campaign period, to promote unity, kindness and peaceful coexistence, while refraining from actions that violate fundamental human rights. He also encouraged voters to be discerning when choosing leaders, calling on Ugandans to elect individuals capable of guiding the country toward progress.
"Let us elect leaders who will lead this nation with dignity and steer it towards development," he said.
Addressing the electoral process, the Bishop emphasized respect for human rights and called on political leaders to accept election outcomes reached through peaceful and lawful means.
"Those who will be elected must be ready to accept results that come through peaceful and lawful processes," he said.
He further appealed to security agencies to act professionally during the election period and to safeguard press freedom, noting the media's critical role in promoting democracy.
"I appeal to security agencies to protect journalists and allow the media to operate freely during this period," he said.
Beyond electoral matters, Bishop Banja urged Ugandans to show compassion and generosity during the festive season, particularly towards the needy.
"Each one of us should do something to help those in need during this festive season," he said.
He also cautioned parents to take responsibility for their children during the holidays, urging guidance and supervision to prevent young people from engaging in harmful behavior.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
"Parents must protect their children, guide them into productive activities, and ensure they are not drawn into behavior that may destroy their peace and future," he warned.
In addition, the Bishop encouraged Ugandans to work hard and pursue self-reliance, discouraging dependency.
"We must learn to work hard and avoid a lifestyle of dependency," he said.
Bishop Banja wished Ugandans a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year, extending goodwill to the Kabaka, national leaders and leaders across the country. He also called on Ugandans to gather in large numbers on December 31 for a national prayer session.
"Let us come together in prayer so that our country may pass through the election period peacefully," he said.
His message comes at a critical time as Uganda heads into an election year, reinforcing calls for peaceful participation, unity and respect for democratic values.
