Archbishop John Baptist Odama has warned that the proposed Sovereignty Bill could deepen divisions in Uganda, cautioning that legislation should promote unity rather than set citizens against each other.
"The government is meant to protect and promote the common good," Odama said. "Laws should bring people together, not divide them."
He questioned the intent behind the Bill, arguing that it may not advance social or economic harmony.
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"If it is for attacking others, let it be cancelled and not passed," he added, warning that leaders would be held accountable for any disorder arising from divisive policies.
Odama made the remarks in Lira City during the 20th anniversary of the Peace Prayer Week, a regional initiative that has, for two decades, brought together religious, cultural, and political actors to promote reconciliation across northern Uganda.
The annual gathering, launched on January 6, 2006, by Emmanuel Wamala, rotates among dioceses in the region. This year's event, held at Lango College playground, attracted thousands of participants, including clerics and faithful from Gulu, Nebbi, Arua, Lira, and Kotido.
Archbishop Odama described the peace platform--known as CANAL, representing the ecclesiastical provinces of Gulu, Nebbi, Arua, and Lira--as an inclusive movement that transcends religious and social boundaries.
"Some people think it is only for Catholics. We are for the whole humankind," he said, noting that the initiative brings together more than 13 cultural groups, multiple religious denominations, and actors from across Uganda's political spectrum.
"We would like to see all these come together. Even those who do not belong to any group, we say peace is for everyone," he added.
He framed peace as both a social and spiritual necessity, invoking the teachings of Augustine of Hippo to emphasize humanity's shared longing for harmony rooted in faith.
The week-long activities began with a Holy Mass and the blessing of a new bishop's residence at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral in Lira, followed by a nine-kilometre peace march through the city.
The Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Arua, Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki, said the large turnout reflected strong public support for unity efforts.
"It was a great march. A lot of people came and we walked together," he said.
Beyond the celebrations, religious leaders used the platform to address ongoing tensions in the region, particularly the protracted land conflict in Apaa involving the Madi and Acholi communities.
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"This is very regrettable because a lot of life has been lost," Odoki said, calling for dialogue and restraint. "Let us always put as priority the life of the people we are to serve."
He also commended interfaith efforts aimed at resolving the conflict, including initiatives led by the Anglican Church in northern Uganda under Bishop Godfrey Loum and the Justice and Peace Office.
"May our prayer bring peace in our hearts, peace in our communities, peace in Uganda," Odoki said.
