LUWERO, UGANDA – A planned visit by National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu to a church function in Luwero District has been marred by allegations of police intimidation, raising concerns about the unequal application of law regarding political gatherings.
The controversy revolves around the launch of the Busiika Parish at the Uganda Martyrs Centenary Church of Uganda, under the Luweero Archdiocese, scheduled for today. A formal invitation leaflet names Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi as the chief guest for the event, set to be presided over by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Wilson Kisekka of Luweero Diocese.
However, according to Kyagulanyi, the event was nearly derailed by state interference. The opposition leader claimed that on the eve of the function, senior police officers pressured church leaders to disinvite him.
“Last night I was told that Savannah RPC Michael Kasigire and Luweero DPC Brighton Ahimbisamukama ordered the church leadership to write to me canceling the invitation, without any cogent reason,” Kyagulanyi stated.
He highlighted what he termed a clear double standard, noting, “Previously, this church has hosted NRM officials without any alarm. But here we are!”
The invitation leaflet, seen by this publication, outlines a full church service scheduled for September 27, 2025, at 10:00 am, with a specific appeal for contributions towards a parish vehicle. The presence of the Bishop and the detailed nature of the invitation suggest the event is primarily ecclesiastical, albeit with a prominent political figure as a guest.
The alleged police action points to the ongoing tensions in the politically sensitive Luwero region. If confirmed, the attempt to force the church to cancel Kyagulanyi’s invitation would signify a direct intervention by security forces into religious affairs to limit opposition movement.
As of the time of publication, the Uganda Police Force had not issued a public statement regarding the allegations made by the NUP president. The situation underscores the fragile relationship between opposition activities and state security protocols in Uganda.
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