Ugandan MP Francis Mwijukye to meet New Pope in August

By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,

BUHWEJU

“We have a sacred duty to move forward together,” Pope Leo XIV urges Catholics during his inaugural address and first Urbi et Orbi blessing

Robert Prevost Elected New Pope, Chooses Pope Leo XIV

Buhweju County member of parliament, Hon. Francis Mwijukye has hailed Pope Leo XIV’s election as a sign of continuity and renewal of the Catholic church.

“…I look forward to meeting him in August 2025,” Hon. Mwijukye said.

On Thursday evening, the world received the good news after White smoke was seen in the chimney of Sistine Chapel in Rome, Vatican, after a conclave of 133 cardinals across the world elected the new Pope.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was immediately announced the world Pope at the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and he chose the name Pope Leo XIV .

Speaking to Parrots Media, Hon. Francis Mwijukye congratulated the new Pope, and pledged commitment to praying for him as he take on his new sacred role in the Roman Catholic Church.

“On behalf of the people of Buhweju and on my own behalf, I send my congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis, and Now His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. This is a historic day for the Catholic church,”

Mwijukye noted that he would be meeting the new Pope in August, this year.

“I pray for him as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church. I look forward to meeting him in August 2025,” he said.

While delivering his inaugural address and first Urbi et Orbit, Pope Leo XIV honoured the late Pope Francis, expressing admiration for his dedication to the Church, especially during his final days.

Buhweju County MP, Hon. Francis Mwijukye meeting Pope Francis in Rome.

“First, I offer deep thanks to Pope Francis of blessed memory, who shepherded the Church with humility and strength. His presence here on Easter Sunday, despite his illness, is a testament to his unwavering devotion.”

The Pontiff also called for world peace, and unity in the church, urging the cardinals and the faithful to collectively support him in his sacred journey.

“…But I cannot do this alone. I ask the cardinals to walk with me and work with me as we proclaim the Gospel.”

“We have a sacred duty to move forward together—as one people, one Church, and one community of believers. Let us be disciples of peace, committed to dialogue, negotiation, and mediation.”