By Robert Segawa
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, has called on the government to adopt a tradition of releasing prisoners every Good Friday, drawing inspiration from a practice long observed by the Catholic Church.
While delivering his homily during the Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC) Good Friday service at Old Kampala Secondary School playground, following the Ecumenical Way of the Cross, Archbishop Kazimba said the tradition dates back to the time of Jesus’ crucifixion, when a notorious prisoner, Barabbas, was released.
He urged the Ugandan government to “copy a leaf” from this biblical example and offer Ugandans the gift of mercy during Easter.
“Such acts of pardoning prisoners by the government will give deeper meaning to Good Friday for Christians,” Archbishop Kazimba said.
In response, the Vice President of Uganda, Hon. Jessica Alupo—who attended the event as the guest of honor—promised to present the idea to the Cabinet for consideration.
In a related appeal, the Catholic Church in Uganda also used the Easter occasion to call on the government to intensify efforts against corruption.
Bishop Anthony Zziwa, Chairman of the Episcopal Conference and Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, emphasized that corruption continues to cripple service delivery and hinders national development. He made the remarks during the UJCC Easter Message at the same event.
“Corruption deprives citizens of essential services and perpetuates poverty,” Bishop Zziwa noted, urging the government to implement effective measures to fight it and ensure that public resources are used wisely.
He also highlighted the urgent need for environmental conservation, pointing out that many Ugandans are neglecting their responsibility to care for nature.
As the country approaches the next electoral cycle, Bishop Zziwa further urged all political and religious leaders to promote peace throughout the election process—before, during, and after voting.
