As Uganda prepares for one of its most significant religious gatherings of the year, the spotlight is firmly on Namugongo, where tight security and final preparations are underway ahead of the 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. Meanwhile, President Yoweri Museveni has called upon the nation’s Muslim community to pray for peace as they embark on the Hajj pilgrimage, and in Tororo District, internal discord within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party has come to the fore, with disgruntled members threatening to form parallel structures.
Tight Security and Final Touches at Namugongo
Preparations for the 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations are in high gear at both the Anglican and Catholic shrines in Namugongo. With the main event set for June 3, security has been visibly intensified, and final site works are being completed to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the thousands of pilgrims expected to attend. At the Anglican site in Nakiyanja, officers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces have been deployed at the main entrance to bolster security. Organizers are painting signage and posts to guide pilgrims, while cleaners work diligently to ensure the grounds are welcoming and hygienic.
Across at the Namugongo Catholic Shrine, similar scenes are unfolding. Security presence is heightened, altar preparations are nearly complete, and cleaning efforts continue throughout the grounds. Pilgrims from various parts of Uganda and the region are already arriving, many walking long distances to pay tribute to the Uganda Martyrs. “We have our personal intentions and wanted to present them at the holy ground,” said Adong Judith, a midwifery student among the early arrivals.
The Uganda Police Force has unveiled a comprehensive set of safety measures to manage the expected influx of pilgrims and to safeguard against criminal threats that often accompany large gatherings. Police Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke has urged pilgrims to remain vigilant, especially given that many rest overnight at churches, schools, and community centers, making them vulnerable to theft or exploitation. The Joint Security Operation Command is also focusing on traffic management, health emergencies, lost children, and deterring criminal elements such as impostors posing as priests or dishonest accommodation providers.
Corporate support has been instrumental in these preparations. MTN Uganda, for example, has donated Shs15 million, 500 reflector jackets, and bottled water to the Lugazi Catholic Diocese to enhance pilgrim safety and comfort. These efforts are especially critical for foot pilgrims, who face risks such as accidents, dehydration, and exhaustion during their long journeys.
President Museveni Asks Muslims to Pray for Peace
In a separate but equally significant development, President Museveni has called upon the Muslim faithful to pray for Uganda to remain peaceful as they embark on the Hajj pilgrimage. The president’s message was delivered by the State House Comptroller, Jane Barekye, during the flag-off ceremony for 100 Muslims traveling to Mecca. Museveni emphasized the importance of peace and unity, urging religious leaders to preach the gospel of wealth creation and encouraging Ugandans to fight poverty through commercial agriculture. He specifically recommended the four-acre model for small landholders, highlighting coffee, fruits, pasture for zero grazing, and food crops as viable options.
Discontent Among NRM Members in Tororo District
Meanwhile, internal tensions within the NRM party in Tororo District have erupted into the open. A group of disgruntled members, led by Brian Osuna, who initially contested for the district party chairperson position before pulling out, has threatened to form a parallel mobilization office. The group alleges widespread irregularities in the recent party structure elections, including the exclusion of loyal NRM supporters and the inclusion of opposition party members in the voting process. Several members have accused party officials of using coupons instead of the official voter register, effectively disenfranchising genuine supporters.
The situation escalated during the elections when Dr. Emmanuel Otaala, the Member of Parliament for West Budama South, allegedly attempted to strangle the district registrar after losing the race for General Secretary. The incident, which led to a temporary halt in proceedings, has drawn widespread condemnation from party delegates and raised concerns about the party’s internal discipline and integrity. Despite the chaos, voting resumed under heavy security, with several high-profile figures retaining or securing key positions within the district’s party structure.
Conclusion
As Uganda approaches the Martyrs Day celebrations, the nation is witnessing a convergence of religious devotion, political tension, and national unity. The tight security and meticulous preparations at Namugongo reflect the significance of the event for millions of Ugandans and regional pilgrims. President Museveni’s call for prayers for peace underscores the importance of harmony in a diverse society, while the unrest within the NRM in Tororo District highlights the challenges of maintaining party cohesion and democratic processes. Together, these developments paint a vivid picture of a country navigating faith, politics, and social cohesion as it prepares for major national events.