OBITUARY
“His voice for peace, social justice, compassion, and humility touched the hearts of millions and inspired hope among the faithful,” President Museveni wrote.
Uganda is mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died earlier this week. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed his deep sorrow on behalf of the Ugandan people in a heartfelt letter to the Vatican, offering condolences to the Catholic Church worldwide.
In the letter dated April 21, 2025, and addressed to His Eminence Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, President Museveni paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as an “extraordinary spiritual leader” and a “deeply respected theologian.” He praised the late Pope’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing the Catholic Church’s mission in a rapidly secularizing world.
“His voice for peace, social justice, compassion, and humility touched the hearts of millions and inspired hope among the faithful,” President Museveni wrote. He highlighted Pope Francis’s legacy of interfaith dialogue, noting his willingness to engage with Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and others as a testament to his inclusive vision of faith.
Ugandans hold special memories of Pope Francis’s historic visit to the country in November 2015. During that visit, the Pope celebrated Mass at Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, where he honored the memory of the Ugandan Martyrs and called for unity, peace, and service to humanity. The visit left a lasting impact on Uganda’s Christian community and remains a cherished moment in the nation’s spiritual history.
President Museveni reflected on this visit, noting how Pope Francis’s message of love, reconciliation, and unity resonated with people across faiths. “He was truly in the Kisinde (track) of Jesus,” Museveni wrote, referencing the parable of the Good Samaritan as recorded in Luke 10:29–37.
As Uganda joins Catholics around the world in mourning, the President emphasized solidarity with the Church and reaffirmed the country’s admiration for Pope Francis’s enduring legacy.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the letter concluded.
Flags are expected to fly at half-mast at Catholic institutions across Uganda in honor of the late pontiff, whose leadership and humility will be remembered for generations to come.
