Kitgum, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni led Ugandans in commemorating the 49th anniversary of Archbishop Janani Luwum’s martyrdom in Kitgum District, honoring his courage, faith, and ultimate sacrifice during the brutal regime of former dictator Idi Amin. The President was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni. The National Event, themed “Anchored in Christ for Stability, Peace and Unity” (Ephesians 2:14–17), commenced with a main church service, followed by the President and First Lady laying wreaths at Wii-Gweng in Mucwini, the final resting place of Archbishop Luwum and his wife, Mama Mary Lawil Luwum.
In his address, President Museveni reflected on Archbishop Luwum’s unwavering faith and courage, emphasising the perils of authoritarianism. He recalled the 1971 military coup by Amin and narrated his own decision, as a research assistant in the President’s Office, to reject the regime and organize resistance from Tanzania. “Leaders should not impose themselves on citizens; they should persuade through service,” the President stated, highlighting biblical teachings that encourage leaders to let their good deeds shine.
He underscored that intimidation mirrored the mistakes of the Amin era and reiterated his consistent rejection of assassinations outside the battlefield, citing the refusal to target army commander Oyite Ojok during the armed struggle. President Museveni affirmed that sacrifices by Luwum, Ben Kiwanuka, and other heroes had not been in vain. The President also highlighted Uganda’s national development achievements, particularly in Northern Uganda, crediting infrastructure, electrification, roads, schools, health centers, and clean water systems for reducing poverty and enhancing social services. He pledged to personally address challenges such as cattle rustling in East Acholi and fulfilled his Shs60 million pledge to Kitgum Diocese priests.
Religious leaders, including Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, celebrated Luwum’s legacy of faith, justice, and unity, noting the commemoration as a platform for reflection on national leadership values. The Bishop of Lango Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Alfred Olwa, commended the organising committee, anticipating renewed courage and service as Uganda approaches the golden jubilee of Luwum’s martyrdom. Ministers, MPs, cultural and religious leaders, and congregants participated in prayers, sermons, and community activities. Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, emphasised Northern Uganda’s support for the President and the vision to develop Luwum’s site into an international pilgrimage center. Hon. Lillian Aber, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Relief and Refugees, acknowledged Luwum’s enduring moral influence in promoting peace and regional stability. The commemoration reinforced Uganda’s commitment to faith-inspired leadership, unity, peace, and constructive engagement in regional and global affairs, honoring the enduring legacy of Archbishop Janani Luwum.
Photo Credit: Presidential Press Unit
