Africa-Press – Uganda. National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya has urged religious leaders across Uganda to break their silence and speak out against the growing cases of human rights violations, including torture, abductions, and illegal detentions.
Rubongoya made the appeal while officiating at the launch of a Christian book titled Like Jesus, authored by Pastor Andrew Muwanguzi, held at Kali Hills in Jinja on Sunday.
The book, written by Muwanguzi—who also serves as NUP’s Head of Training and Ideology—highlights various injustices faced by ordinary Ugandans, particularly under the current regime.
In his address as chief guest, Rubongoya expressed disappointment over what he described as a worrying silence from many spiritual leaders amid escalating political repression.
He accused them of turning a blind eye to the suffering of innocent civilians, many of whom, he said, are abducted, tortured, or illegally detained simply for supporting the opposition.
“Religious leaders have a moral obligation to stand on the side of truth. Their silence in the face of injustice emboldens perpetrators. As NUP, we shall not tire in the pursuit of justice for every victim of these state-sponsored abuses,” Rubongoya said.
Pastor Muwanguzi echoed Rubongoya’s concerns, saying his inspiration to write Like Jesus stemmed from the growing spiritual and social burden he felt witnessing injustices across the country.
He urged fellow clergy to rise above fear and advocate for the oppressed, just as Jesus did.
“The message of the gospel is one of justice, compassion, and truth. We cannot preach salvation while ignoring the cries of the suffering,” said Pastor Muwanguzi.
The Bishop of Busoga Diocese, Rt Rev Samson Paul Naimanye, responded to the call, defending the clergy and emphasizing that many church leaders have consistently condemned injustice through their sermons.
However, he cautioned against politicizing the pulpit, noting that places of worship are attended by believers from various political backgrounds.
“We speak against evil, but we do so cautiously. The church must remain a neutral ground where everyone feels safe, regardless of their political beliefs,” Bishop Naimanye said.
“Let us respect the spiritual diversity in our congregations while still promoting justice and truth.”
The launch attracted a cross-section of political, religious, and civil society figures, all reflecting on the intersection between faith, politics, and human rights in Uganda.
The event comes at a time when concerns about state-led repression continue to grow, with opposition politicians and human rights defenders calling for greater accountability and respect for constitutional freedoms.
Pastor Muwanguzi explained that the book aims to fight ignorance and inspire personal transformation through faith.
“My day-to-day work involves training both political actors and religious leaders. This book is about the behavior of Christians—like Jesus. It urges believers to emulate Him in all spheres of life,” Muwanguzi said.
He added, “For example, if Jesus were a soldier or police officer, would He behave like our security forces today? I encourage everyone to read this book because it resonates with how a Christian should behave.”
As Uganda grapples with deepening political and human rights challenges, voices like those of Pastor Muwanguzi and Rubongoya are adding urgency to the national conversation on justice, morality, and the role of faith in public life.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
