The Parish Priest of Mpigi Parish, Rev Fr Deogratius Kiibi Kateregga, has urged leaders elected on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket to remain truthful and accountable to the people who entrusted them with leadership, amid growing concerns over governance and political violence in Uganda.
Fr Kiibi made the remarks during a thanksgiving Mass held for newly sworn-in Mpigi District Chairperson Kawuki Simon Peter.
Speaking during the service, the outspoken cleric expressed concern over what he described as Uganda’s worsening political and economic environment, saying ordinary citizens were enduring increasingly difficult living conditions.
“We all deserve to be paid monthly for surviving in Uganda because the country has become too difficult to live in,” Fr Kiibi said.
He also condemned what he termed as increasing unexplained deaths among political leaders and questioned the credibility of the recently concluded elections.
“Everything that happened during these elections was witnessed by the public. What happened here in Mpigi we saw with our own eyes, while other incidents we followed on radio and television. Many of those declared winners actively participated in electoral malpractice,” he said.
Fr Kiibi congratulated leaders he said won fairly but criticised those who allegedly manipulated the electoral process and later swore using holy books.
“It is wrong to swear using the Bible when you know very well that you rigged the election. Some people raise the Bible and promise justice while fully aware they stole votes,” he said.
The priest praised Elderly MP for Eastern Ofwono Opondo for refusing to swear using the Bible, describing the move as a sign of honesty.
He further urged elected leaders to remain principled, avoid betraying voters and resist being compromised by money and power.
“Be truthful, consistent and loyal to the people who entrusted you with leadership. Do not allow money to distract you from serving citizens,” he added.
Fr Kiibi also challenged NUP leaders not to abandon the voices of Ugandans, saying the country needed courageous and committed leadership now more than ever.
He concluded by praying for wisdom and strength for newly elected leaders as they begin what he described as a difficult journey of leadership.
