Archbishop Ssemogerere Condemns NRM Primary Violence, Calls for Peaceful Elections

The Archbishop of Kampala, The Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere, has strongly condemned the violence and human rights violations reported during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, warning that such incidents erode Uganda’s democratic foundations and social cohesion.

Speaking during the launch of the Justice and Peace Commission's Strategic Plan 2025–2029, Archbishop Ssemogerere expressed deep concern over reports of shootings and intimidation that marred the ruling party’s internal elections.

He said these acts are a troubling reminder that the country still grapples with deep-rooted issues of justice, accountability, and respect for human dignity.

“What we have witnessed during the NRM primaries is deeply troubling. The shooting of people and the intimidation that has characterized the process are unacceptable. Violence should not be part of our politics. We must respect human rights and ensure justice for all,” he said.

The Archbishop urged all political actors to embrace civility and dialogue in the run-up to the 2026 general elections, emphasizing the need for peaceful, free, and fair democratic processes. He also encouraged voters to choose leaders who embody integrity and reject corruption.

“Elections should be a time of expressing choices, not of violence and fear. Politicians must learn to respect each other and the will of the people,” he added.

Archbishop Ssemogerere made the remarks at a high-level event organized by the Justice and Peace Commission of the Kampala Archdiocese, where the Church unveiled its five-year strategic plan to promote civic responsibility, social justice, and human rights across Uganda.

The Commission's head, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Sita, explained that the new plan was developed through wide consultations and focuses on five core areas: promotion of human dignity based on Catholic Social Teaching, addressing inequality and enhancing leadership accountability, strengthening democratic values through civic education, fostering interfaith and inter-community dialogue, and supporting vulnerable groups including displaced persons and victims of trafficking.

Fr. Sita noted that the Commission would collaborate with government bodies, civil society, and international partners to implement the strategy effectively.

As part of its peacebuilding initiatives, the Commission also announced a series of Peace Marathons to be held in different regions of the country.

The next event is scheduled for September 6. Archbishop Ssemogerere called on all Ugandans to participate in solidarity for national peace and unity.

“Let us run for peace, let us stand for justice, and let us build a country where every person’s dignity is respected,” he said.

The event concluded with a collective call for stronger cooperation among religious leaders, policymakers, and citizens to safeguard justice and ensure that Uganda’s political transition is grounded in peace and mutual respect.