Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has expressed deep disappointment over Cabinet members' deliberate obstruction of Bishop Hannington Day being declared a public holiday.
Speaking at the commemoration event in Kyando, Mayuge District, Archbishop Kaziimba stated, "There are opposers in Cabinet, very determined to frustrate everything from Church of Uganda. I know them.
They have consistently frustrated gazetting this day as a public holiday." He emphasized that the Church of Uganda has long advocated for this day to honor Bishop James Hannington's martyrdom in 1885.
Bishop Hannington was brutally killed by King Mwanga's emissaries on October 29, 1885, after being apprehended while traveling to Uganda. His last words were, "Go tell your master that I have purchased the road to Uganda with my blood."
Rt Rev Paul Hannington Ssubi, Bishop of East Busoga Diocese, urged believers to emulate Bishop Hannington's unwavering faith and endurance.
"Bishop Hannington died with a deep sense of purpose, knowing his sacrifice was not in vain. His life teaches us to endure, strengthened by his promise."
Thousands attend the annual commemoration, but notably, no government ministers or MPs attended this year's event, allegedly due to a presidential summons.
The Church of Uganda seeks official recognition for Bishop Hannington Day, similar to Uganda Martyrs' Day, promoting religious tourism and spiritual growth.
