The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has joined Ugandans in commemorating Archbishop Janani Jakaliya Luwum Day, urging renewed commitment to human rights, justice, and the rule of law.
In a message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Mayiga paid tribute to Archbishop Luwum, who was murdered during the regime of former President Idi Amin.
He recalled that Luwum was killed alongside cabinet ministers Erinayo Wilson Oryema and Charles Oboth Ofumbi.
“Today is Archbishop Janani Luwum Day, who was murdered by Idi Amin for political reasons since Amin believed the Archbishop (together with ministers he killed along with him) were working with Milton Obote to overthrow his regime,” Mayiga wrote.
Reflecting on the significance of the commemoration, Mayiga stressed that Uganda’s stability and development depend on adherence to the rule of law and protection of human rights.
He expressed concern over reports of violence during the recently concluded general elections, saying the events underscore the continued relevance of Luwum’s message nearly five decades later.
“We commemorate this day as a reminder that Uganda should no longer witness violations of human rights, especially extrajudicial killings. Yet we witnessed violence, arrests, and murders during the just concluded general elections. The stability and development of Uganda can only be fully realised when the rule of law reigns,” he added.
Archbishop Luwum, the third Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, was arrested on February 16, 1977, after speaking out against widespread human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings under Amin’s regime.
Although official accounts at the time claimed he died in a car crash, historical evidence widely acknowledges that he was executed on Amin’s orders.
Luwum is honored both nationally and internationally for his unwavering stand against tyranny. A statue in his memory stands at Westminster Abbey in the United Kingdom, symbolizing his enduring legacy as a Christian martyr.
Across the country, annual commemorations include national prayers, pilgrimages to Mucwini in Kitgum District, and community events celebrating his life, courage, and sacrifice.
