Museveni Honors Archbishop Luwum, Warns Against ‘Amin-Style’ Leadership

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni led Uganda in commemorating the 49th anniversary of Archbishop Janani Luwum’s martyrdom in Kitgum District on February 16, 2026, honoring the Archbishop’s courage and faith during Idi Amin’s brutal regime. The event, themed “Anchored in Christ for Stability, Peace and Unity” (Ephesians 2:14–17), underscored the dangers of authoritarian rule.

Remembering Archbishop Luwum

Archbishop Janani Luwum, killed in 1977 after openly condemning human rights abuses and arbitrary arrests under Amin’s government, is remembered annually on St. Janani Luwum Day. The commemoration included a church service and a wreath-laying ceremony at Wii-Gweng in Mucwini, the final resting place of Archbishop Luwum and his wife, Mama Mary Lawil Luwum.

Museveni Reflects on Amin’s Rise to Power

President Museveni described Idi Amin’s seizure of power through the 1971 coup as his first major mistake. He recalled learning of the coup on January 25, 1971, even as preparing for work in Kireka, and subsequently resolving with student leaders to resist the new regime. Within two days, he left for Tanzania with four others to begin organizing resistance [Uganda Broadcasting Corporation].

Warning Against Intimidation

Museveni cautioned current leaders against intimidation, drawing parallels with Amin’s authoritarian tactics. He emphasized the importance of persuasion and service delivery, stating that leaders should not impose themselves on citizens but win their support through good governance [Nile Post]. He warned that intimidation mirrors the failures of past dictatorships.

Rejecting Violence and Cowardice

The President recounted rejecting a proposal to assassinate then-army commander Oyite Ojok, deeming such an act cowardly. He affirmed his consistent rejection of assassinations, even during armed struggle, emphasizing that both the cause and the methods must be just [Kampala Post].

Development in Northern Uganda

Museveni highlighted government development efforts in Northern Uganda, including expanded electricity access, improved roads, schools, health centers, and clean water systems. He noted that these improvements have contributed to the elimination of diseases like guinea worm and are aimed at integrating more households into the money economy through initiatives like the Parish Development Model [Uganda Broadcasting Corporation].

Commitment to Peace and Security

The President pledged to address reports of cattle rustling in East Acholi, assuring residents that the matter would receive his personal attention. He also fulfilled a Shs60 million pledge to the Priests of Kitgum Diocese.

Archbishop Luwum’s Legacy

Archbishop Janani Luwum’s legacy was also celebrated by Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, who welcomed pilgrims and believers from across the country. He emphasized that the commemoration is about faith, justice, and the values Luwum preached. Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Hon. Rose Lilly Akello, highlighted plans to develop Janani Luwum’s site into an international pilgrimage center, with projects for a primary school, hospital, and administrative block underway [Local Broadcasts].