By KT Reporter
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, has called on President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to extend pardons to more prisoners, as the nation marks the 49th Anniversary of the martyrdom of Archbishop Janani Luwum, who was killed under the brutal regime of Idi Amin.
Archbishop Kazimba noted that President Museveni has a history of granting pardons to minor offenders, and he urged the President to continue this gesture in honor of Archbishop Luwum. “President Museveni has consistently pardoned minor offenders, and we appeal that similar acts of clemency be considered during this commemoration,” Archbishop Kazimba said during the ceremony at Mucwini Ceremonial Grounds in Kitgum district.
Dr. Kazimba praised the government for recognizing Archbishop Luwum’s contributions to Uganda’s growth and development. He emphasized that Luwum was murdered for speaking truth to power and opposing the atrocities of the Amin regime, highlighting the crucial role of faith and moral courage in the country’s transformation. He urged Ugandans to emulate Archbishop Luwum by living according to the values he upheld, noting that his life remains a guiding example of integrity and service.
Archbishop Kazimba highlighted several initiatives established in honor of Luwum, including Janani Luwum House, formerly Church House in Kampala, Janani Luwum Hall at Uganda Christian University, Janani Luwum Church at Kansanga, and numerous schools named after him, reflecting his heroic legacy. Archbishop emeritus Henry Luke Orombi urged the government to expedite the construction of a fitting memorial site for Archbishop Luwum at Mucwini Ceremonial Grounds.
Echoing this call, Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello, outlined plans to establish an international Pilgrimage Center at Luwum’s birthplace in Mucwini Sub-County, Acholi Sub-region. The center is expected to include a church, school, stadium, and other facilities, aimed at preserving his memory and promoting faith-based tourism.
During the commemoration, Minister Akello also commended the electorate of Kitgum and the Acholi Sub-region for overwhelmingly supporting President Museveni and the NRM candidates in the 2026 polls. Kitgum LC5 Chairperson, Christopher Arwai Obol, presented a district status report highlighting the significance of Archbishop Luwum’s legacy to the region, including the need for the memorial site, addressing challenges posed by Karimojong cattle rustlers, and scaling up university education services in East Acholi.
Archbishop Kazimba concluded by reminding Ugandans that the legacy of Janani Luwum continues to inspire faith, courage, and dedication to justice across the nation.
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