Political leaders in Mityana District have commended the Bishop of Kiyinda–Mityana Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Anthony Zziwa, for urging politicians to refrain from insults and divisive language during campaigns.
The Bishop delivered the message during the 44th anniversary Mass of the Diocese, emphasizing the need for dignified political discourse.
Woman Member of Parliament Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa said the guidance came at a crucial time, noting that some politicians have been openly demeaning opponents at rallies.
Bagala suggested that religious leaders may have been prompted to speak out after witnessing abusive language circulated on social media from political gatherings. “The Bishop’s appeal is timely. Those videos circulate widely, so his guidance was necessary to restore dignity in our politics,” she said.
Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake Butebi praised religious leaders for using their moral authority to guide the political environment.
“All politicians should stop trading insults and instead tell voters the truth about what they stand for. For me, the truth is enough; I don’t need to exaggerate or demean anyone,” he said.
Mityana South MP Richard Lumu echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that political rivalry should never translate into personal hostility. “What the Bishop has said shows that we are all brothers and sisters. Politics is temporary; it should not destroy relationships that outlive campaign seasons,” Lumu said.
The thanksgiving Mass marking 44 years since the creation of Kiyinda–Mityana Diocese, established in 1981, brought together political leaders, government officials, religious figures, and Christians from across the region. Bishop Zziwa led the celebrations, using the occasion to remind leaders and citizens alike of the importance of unity and respect in political engagement.