With just 14 days to the presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for January 15, 2026, Pastor Robert Kayanja of Lubaga Miracle Centre has urged politicians to accept defeat peacefully and resolve any disputes through lawful means.
In his New Year message delivered during a crossover service at Lubaga Miracle Centre grounds on Tuesday night, Kayanja warned candidates against resorting to violence if the election results do not favour them.
He said Uganda belongs to all its citizens and that it is the collective responsibility of leaders and voters alike to safeguard peace before, during and after the polls.
“Uganda has enjoyed relative peace for the past 40 years. We must protect this legacy,” Kayanja said.
“If anyone is not satisfied with the results of the elections, the law provides avenues to address grievances. Violence should never be an option.”
His remarks come amid heightened political tension as candidates crisscross the country seeking votes. While elections inevitably produce winners and losers, Kayanja emphasised that leadership transitions must be guided by respect for democratic institutions and the rule of law.
The pastor also weighed in on recent calls by some opposition politicians urging voters to remain at polling stations after casting their ballots to “protect the vote”. Those calls have sparked debate, particularly after the CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, warned citizens to go home after voting, a statement that attracted mixed reactions and raised public concern over the conduct of the electoral process.
Without referring to any individual, Kayanja cautioned against actions or rhetoric that could inflame tensions, urging political actors to prioritise national unity over personal ambition.
“Leadership is about service, not power. Anyone aspiring to lead this country must demonstrate maturity, restraint and love for Uganda,” Kayanja said.
Turning to the country’s socio-economic challenges, Kayanja said unemployment especially among young people should be a central issue for those seeking office in 2026. He called on aspiring leaders to present clear and practical plans to improve the livelihoods of Uganda’s growing youth population.
“The future of this country depends on how we empower our young people economically,” he said.
