national 3 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Celebrates Easter Amid Tragedy, Political Tensions, and Rising Costs
Ugandans mark Easter with messages of hope and reconciliation from Archbishop Kaziimba, despite recent horrors like the killing of four toddlers in Ggaba, fuel price surges from global conflicts, and post-election divisions. Church leaders urge unity and peace as the nation grapples with refugee challenges and opposition figures in custody. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-faces-easter-in-difficult-circumstances-5412364
Uganda enters Easter Sunday under a cloud of sorrow and uncertainty. The gruesome stabbing of four young children at a daycare in Kampala’s Ggaba suburb on April 2 has left the nation reeling, with the youngest victim just 18 months old. Security forces have ramped up patrols for the holiday, but questions linger over school safety.
Fuel prices have soared past Shs5,000 per liter for petrol and diesel, blamed on international tensions including Trump’s conflict with Iran. Political wounds from January’s disputed presidential election remain raw, with failed dialogue attempts across parties and opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye facing treason charges alongside aides.
Archbishop Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda offers a beacon of hope. He emphasizes the resurrection’s power, declaring revivals are ‘just a heartbeat away.’ In his message, he calls for reconciliation, harmony, and faith, noting the Church’s work with the Inter Religious Council of Uganda post-elections.
‘Uganda does not belong to any single political party,’ the archbishop stated, urging citizens to sing the national anthem prayerfully to foster unity. He highlighted the country’s burden hosting over two million refugees, sharing his recent visit to Nakivale settlement where he delivered aid and renewed calls for peace.
Opposition voices echo the plea for dialogue. Fred Kangave of the Forum for Democratic Change described many as ‘wounded,’ while Michael Kabaziguruka of the People’s Front for Freedom demanded democratic principles and safety for all, referencing exiled NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi.
Education Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda views Easter as a time of liberation from sin and death, though her ministry faces scrutiny over the Ggaba incident. Amid these trials, the Easter message anchors on Christ’s resurrection, encouraging trust in a hopeful future.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)