The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Joseph Eciru Oliach, has issued a stern caution to politicians against using young people to fuel violence in the run-up to the 2026 general elections.
The Bishop delivered the message on Friday during celebrations marking the feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian at Akeriau in Orungo County, Amuria District.
His call came amid growing concern over the manipulation of youth by political actors during campaign seasons.
“Why should the youth be used to create tension and disorder?” Bishop Eciru asked in his homily. “They are the future of this nation and should instead be guided to champion peace and harmony. Violence only destroys their own future and destabilizes our communities.”
The prelate urged young people to resist being lured into violent activities, warning that such acts not only serve the selfish interests of politicians but also undermine the nation’s stability.
He emphasized that leaders must lead by example, noting that genuine service is about uplifting communities, not dividing them.
His message resonated strongly with several Amuria District leaders and NRM flag bearers who attended the celebrations, many of whom echoed his call for peaceful politics.
Margaret Etilu, the NRM flag bearer for Woman MP Amuria District, welcomed the Bishop’s counsel, describing it as timely and necessary.
She highlighted the importance of responsible leadership in implementing government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and other youth empowerment schemes.
“One thing as a leader that I have seen is the government implements these wealth creation programs, but the hand of leadership has not been strong enough in ensuring proper implementation,” Etilu said.
“When religious leaders like the Bishop advocate for wealth creation within communities, it inspires us as political leaders to follow suit and strengthen government initiatives.”
Etilu also condemned electoral malpractice and violence, stressing that no leader should seek power through the loss of lives or the theft of votes.
“You cannot be an MP leading people who died just for you to get a seat. We cannot advocate for stealing votes and then sit comfortably knowing that we rigged our way into office,” she remarked.
“As leaders, let us embrace peace, support each other, and allow God to choose leaders who serve His people faithfully.”
Teddy Anyuk, the NRM flag bearer for Orungo County, echoed the Bishop’s call by emphasizing the need for leaders and citizens alike to prioritize wealth creation over political rivalry.
“The government has provided programs like the four-acre model. This is like starting a business, where the aim is to make profit and improve livelihoods,” Anyuk said.
“Let us not squander what we receive, but put it to productive use so that we multiply it and uplift our households.”
She stressed that the political season should not distract communities from economic empowerment, adding that peace and development go hand in hand.
Isaac Okello Omiat, the NRM flag bearer for LCV Amuria District, reiterated that peace and unity would form the cornerstone of his leadership.
He criticized the tendency by some politicians to hurl insults and demean opponents during campaigns.
“Leaders must preach peace and unity. Even while campaigning, insulting and abusing others is unacceptable,” Okello said.
“After the elections, we remain the people of Amuria, worshiping in the same churches and serving the same communities. Politics should not divide us permanently.”
He added that leaders who resort to insults often expose their self-interest rather than a genuine desire to serve the people.
The Bishop’s message and the leaders’ responses come at a time when Uganda’s political climate is gradually heating up ahead of the 2026 polls.
Electoral seasons in the country have often been characterized by tension, confrontations, and allegations of youth manipulation by rival political camps.
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