Mityana Diocese Bishop Dr. Ssalongo James Bukomeko has condemned the abduction of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, warning that Uganda risks sliding back into a troubling chapter of its political history.
His remarks come amid public concern after President Yoweri Museveni’s son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, publicly acknowledged holding Lukwago in a basement and threatened further action against opposition figures, a development that has intensified national debate on human rights and state power.
Speaking on the incident, Bishop Bukomeko said the reported treatment of Lukwago reflects a worrying trend that should not be normalised.
He cautioned that silence in the face of such actions only deepens fear across society and weakens public accountability.
The bishop further stated that he is not afraid of speaking out, even if it puts his life at risk.
“Killing me will not help because it is only a matter of who dies first. All of us will die,” he said, in remarks that underscored his insistence that truth must be spoken regardless of consequences.
He challenged religious leaders, cultural figures, and opinion leaders to take a stronger stand on matters affecting human rights and governance, arguing that silence from influential voices contributes to a culture of fear.
According to him, when alleged injustice begins affecting individuals, it rarely distinguishes between political affiliation or status.
Bishop Bukomeko’s comments have added to growing public debate over the treatment of opposition figures in Uganda, with critics warning that enforced silence and fear-driven politics could undermine national cohesion.
He noted that Uganda is at risk of revisiting patterns many believed had been left behind, where citizens feel increasingly unsafe expressing dissenting views.
In his message, he urged leaders across all sectors to recognise that ignoring such incidents today could have broader consequences for society in the future.