17th Feb,2026
By Anakereti Kiiza
Kagadi
Church leaders in Kagadi district have called on fellow clergy to speak openly against injustice and human rights abuses in honour of the late Archbishop Janani Luwum’s legacy who opposed human rights abuses during Iddi Amin’s dictatorship and for standing firm in his faith.
Archbishop Luwum was murdered on February 16, 1977, after openly criticizing human rights abuses under the regime of former President Idi Amin.
In 2015, the government declared February 16 a public holiday in his memory, recognising his contribution to faith and human rights.
This year’s main national celebrations were held on Monday February 16 in Mucwini, Kitgum District, under the theme, “Anchored in Christ for Peace and Stability.”
The archdeacon of Kagadi archdeaconry Ven.Rev.Canon.Francis Mugisa described the day as historic, celebrating the leader who devoted his life to God, served with integrity and remained a voice for the voiceless during some of Uganda’s darkest times.
He asked church leaders to stand firm and condemn persecution and arrests of innocent Ugandans, rampant land grabbing, murders and other forms of injustice that have left many marginalised Ugandans oppressed.
He also condemns the political violence in the recent general elections, saying such injustices do not reflect democracy.
Rev.Canon. Mugisa however said some church leaders have lacked courage to fight injustice in the country, stressing that some have been compromised and others lack good will to advocate for the rights of the marginalised Ugandans.
He also emphasised that Archbishop Luwum’s ministry was focused on pleasing God, not earthly authorities, urging Christians to emulate his legacy by serving with integrity and awaiting God’s ultimate reward.
Pastor Magezi F Ibrahim the chairperson Interreligious council of Kagadi district noted that the anniversary serves as a reminder to leaders and the community that the path of service comes with challenges and requires patience. He cited Archbishop Luwum’s fight against corruption during his time, a struggle that continues today.
He also condemned the rampant corruption in the public sectors citing charging fees in government health facilities and government aided schools, saying such practices are obstacle to accessibility to key essential services.
Pastor Magezi has called on president Museven to fight corruption this new term and work closely with the church to fight injustice and seek for reconciliation with opposition political groups in the aftermath of the 2026 elections.
Meanwhile Alice Kabasana the head of laity Kagadi Archdeaconry says the legacy of Archbishop Janani Luwuum is a reminder to leaders to admit their mistakes, accept advice and act to address the needs of the community.
