As Uganda heads toward the January 15, general elections, Catholic bishops have issued a firm warning over the conduct of the polls, urging the Electoral Commission to take full charge of the electoral process.
The bishops, under their umbrella body, the Uganda Episcopal Conference, made the call in their annual Christmas message delivered by their chairperson, Bishop Joseph Antony Zziwa.
The bishops noted that the Electoral Commission should “demonstrate effective control of the electoral process” and on security forces “to stick to their roles of keeping law and order and desist from violent acts that injure and kill voters.”
The bishops added that while the current campaigns were relatively peaceful at the beginning, they are becoming violent every passing day, largely due to the involvement of the security agencies, including the army, thus casting doubts on the credibility of the entire electoral process.
Over the past weeks, reports of attacks on opposition supporters and candidates by security personnel have resulted in injuries and deaths, while restrictions on free movement and campaigning for some contestants have fuelled hatred and diminished trust in law enforcement.
These incidents, including clashes during campaigns in areas like Gulu and Wakiso involving figures such as National Unity Platform leader Bobi Wine, have involved beatings, tear gas, arrests, and intimidation, drawing condemnation from opposition parties, and human rights groups.
Beyond criticism of the Electoral Commission and security agencies, the bishops also warned political contestants against fueling conflict and confrontation.
“We urge you to abide by the rules laid down in the electoral statutes and lawful guidelines issued by the relevant authorities,” the statement reads in part.
The bishops further appealed to voters to listen to all candidates and make informed choices. They cautioned against violence and vote buying, and urged citizens to turn up in large numbers on polling day.
Each year, Catholic bishops issue a Christmas message to the faithful and the wider public, using the address to reflect on key religious and social issues and to offer moral guidance to the nation.
This year’s message comes amid intense political campaigns ahead of the January 2026 general elections. The timing shaped its tone, with the bishops stressing that the message of Christ’s birth upholds justice, peace, and reconciliation, values often tested during campaigns that strain relationships, public resources, and national security.
The bishops message heavily drew from their earlier pastoral letter titled “The Truth Will Set You Free,” issued in March 2025.
That earlier document outlined expectations for fair and ethical elections, highlighting longstanding concerns over unequal opportunities for contestants and violence involving politicians, supporters, and security forces.
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