Bishop Jacinto Kibuuka, chairperson of the Christian Ecumenical Council of Uganda (CECU) and presiding bishop of the Evangelical Orthodoxy Church in Uganda, has called on Ugandans to reject evil acts and embrace righteousness, drawing inspiration from the Uganda Martyrs who died for their faith.
Speaking at the Martyrs’ Day celebration at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Namugongo, Bishop Kibuuka expressed deep concern over widespread corruption, religious intolerance, embezzlement, greed, land grabbing, murders, selfishness, and witchcraft in the country.
During his address, Bishop Kibuuka highlighted the unity of the Uganda Martyrs, who came from various tribes and stood together in their faith without any tribal segregation.
He urged Christians, politicians, and the general public to abandon tribalism, nepotism, sectarianism, witchcraft, and deceit, labeling these practices as detrimental to the nation’s moral fabric.
Bishop Kibuuka also criticized Western influences for promoting what he described as "evil vices" such as homosexuality and lesbianism, especially among the youth.
“As we celebrate Martyrs’ Day, we must recognize the cultural and moral challenges imposed on us by the West, such as homosexuality, abortion, contraceptives, human sacrifices, and the violation of human rights,” said Bishop Kibuuka.
He lamented the prevalence of prostitution, theft, and other forms of moral decay, emphasizing that these issues threaten the core values of Ugandan society.
Bishop Kibuuka called for a Christianity that goes beyond lip service, urging believers to live out their faith genuinely.
“Christianity must be more than just words; it should be reflected in our actions and lifestyle. We must adhere to truth, honesty, faithfulness to God, genuine concern for others, and peacemaking in all we do,” he stressed.
He reminded the congregation that despite the challenges, God remains sovereign and calls His followers to be courageous and steadfast.Gerald Nangoli, Member of Parliament for Elgon North in Bulambuli district and guest of honor at the event, echoed Bishop Kibuuka’s sentiments. Nangoli urged the public to emulate the devotion and sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs.
“We can endure suffering and challenges, but in the end, others will benefit from our perseverance. As we celebrate the Martyrs, we must particularly address the rampant corruption in our society,” Nangoli said.
He appealed to those involved in embezzling public funds to change their ways and consider their legacy.
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Nangoli emphasized the importance of collective action in fighting corruption, highlighting that everyone will ultimately be accountable to God.
“Let’s all join hands to combat corruption, knowing that we will answer to God for our actions,” he concluded.
The Christian Ecumenical Council of Uganda (CECU), comprising six religious bodies, including the Evangelical Orthodox Church, Charismatic Episcopal Church, Worldwide Anglican Church, Orthodox Anglican Church, Reformed Anglican Church, and Orthodox Anglican Church, continues to advocate for moral integrity and unity among Ugandans.
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices of the Uganda Martyrs, the call for a return to moral values and genuine faith resonates strongly, urging all citizens to contribute to a just and upright society.
