The Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, Paul Ssemogerere, has criticized the worsening state of human rights in Uganda, warning that persistent abuses are damaging the government’s image and weakening public trust in state institutions.
He made the remarks today, while presiding over the 44th anniversary celebrations of St. John’s Secondary School in Muduuma, Mpigi District.
The event also marked the launch of a reconstruction project for the school’s girls’ dormitory, which was recently destroyed in a fire.
Addressing students, parents and clergy, Dr. Ssemogerere called on security and law enforcement officers to exercise restraint and respect the rights and dignity of citizens.
He expressed concern over what he described as a shrinking democratic space, warning that the suppression of political opposition had become increasingly routine.
He said genuine leadership should be defined by tolerance of differing views rather than silencing dissent.
The Archbishop also linked Uganda’s social and governance challenges to what he described as weaknesses in the rule of law, pointing to corruption, impunity and abuse of vulnerable citizens as major drivers of public discontent.
He further warned against selective justice, saying it fuels public frustration and undermines confidence in institutions tasked with enforcing the law.
The Archbishop concluded by urging the government to pursue dialogue and reconciliation rather than confrontation.
