UPC hails late Pope as Uganda prepares for special mass

24 April 2025, 10:48 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Sharon Arach Oyat, delivered the party’s condolence message to the general public during the party’s weekly press conference yesterday at their headquarters in Kampala.

“The Pope lived a full life and leaves behind a rich legacy that will continue to touch our hearts and minds. The Holy Father was a great crusader for social justice and led the global Catholic movement in advocating for peace. The UPC appreciates his words of wisdom, actions, and deeds, which always filled our hearts with compassion and gratitude,” Arach said.

Arach went on to state that, not long ago, Pope Francis surprised the leadership of South Sudan and the entire world when he humbled himself by kneeling to pray for peace and kissing the shoes of H.E. Salva Kiir, the President of South Sudan, and his Vice President, H.E. Riek Machar. “This was deeply moving and served as a reminder to South Sudan and Africa that they are not alone in the fight for a better and more peaceful world. As UPC, we continue to pray for the success of all peace initiatives aimed at stabilising both Sudan and South Sudan, as well as other African countries where peace is at risk. Pope Francis was also a great environmentalist who was deeply concerned with how we can best utilise our natural environment and its resources,” she said.

According to UPC, climate change directly threatens humanity, while the country must ensure enough resources for the global population. This requires promoting proper farming practices and the use of eco-friendly energy sources like solar power. “Pope Francis exhibited the power of reconciliation, which leads to true dialogue as we work to end violence in all its forms. He worked towards protecting refugees and reaching out to those living on the margins of society, while encouraging the poor to occupy a special place in the Church. This was truly Godly,” Arach added.

In the same vein, the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, Archbishop Luigi Bianco, during a press conference at his residence in Mbuya, Kampala, confirmed that Uganda would not participate in electing the next Pope. “Uganda will not take part in the Papal conclave, as Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala is over 80, the canonical age limit,” Bianco stated. The Catholic Church in Uganda, through the Chancellor, Father Pius Male Sentumbwe, also clarified that on Friday, 25th April 2025, there would be a Mass at St. Mary’s Church, Lubaga Cathedral, at noon, to be led by the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, Archbishop Luigi Bianco. Additionally, a condolence book has been opened at the cathedral for anyone wishing to sign. The general public is invited. “We continue to pray for a peaceful rest for the soul of Pope Francis in our homes and prayer centres,” Father Sentumbwe said.

It should be remembered that Cardinal Kevin, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over the rite of sealing the Pope’s coffin in St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday at 8:00 PM. The Pope will then be buried on Saturday. Millions of people are expected to follow the proceedings from various parts of the world.