KITGUM DISTRICT: 16 February 2026– President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni led the nation today in commemorating the 49th anniversary of Archbishop Janani Luwum’s martyrdom, using the occasion to reflect on Uganda’s liberation and the dangers of authoritarian rule.
The national event, held in Kitgum District under the theme “Anchored in Christ for Stability, Peace and Unity,” honored the life of the Archbishop, who was murdered in 1977 after openly condemning the human rights abuses of dictator Idi Amin. Accompanied by First Lady Janet Museveni, the President laid wreaths at Wii-Gweng in Mucwini at the final resting place of the Archbishop and his wife, Mama Mary Lawil Luwum.
Lessons from History
During his address, President Museveni detailed the “mistakes” of the Amin regime, specifically the use of military force to impose leadership and the reliance on extrajudicial killings to silence opposition.
Persuasion Over Force: Museveni recalled starting his resistance just hours after Amin’s 1971 coup, stating, “Amin ruled me only for a few hours”. He urged current leaders to persuade citizens through good service rather than intimidation.
Just Methods: The President emphasized that even in conflict, methods must be just. He shared a historical anecdote about rejecting a proposal to assassinate a former army commander, calling such tactics “cowardice”.
Regional Development and Future Plans
President Museveni also focused on the progress of Northern Uganda, thanking the region for its recent electoral support. He attributed this support to government investments in infrastructure, including:
The extension of electricity and improved road networks.
The establishment of schools and health centers.
Poverty alleviation programs like the Parish Development Model.
Addressing local concerns, the President pledged personal attention to reports of cattle rustling in East Acholi and fulfilled a Shs60 million pledge to the Priests of Kitgum Diocese.
A Growing Legacy
The commemoration also looked toward the future of the Archbishop’s legacy. Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, announced plans to transform the Janani Luwum site into an international pilgrimage center. A master plan is already in place for the site, which will include a primary school, hospital, and administrative block.
Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, welcomed pilgrims and noted that the day is a celebration of “faith, justice, and the values [Luwum] preached”.