President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed profound sorrow over the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, hailing the late pontiff as a symbol of peace, humility, and interfaith unity.
In a heartfelt condolence message addressed to Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Ugandan leader joined the global community in mourning the spiritual icon.
In a solemn statement released from State House, President Museveni extended his condolences to the Catholic Church and the global faithful, describing Pope Francis as a transformative figure whose moral clarity and devotion revitalized Christianity in a world grappling with division and materialism.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Uganda, and on my own behalf, I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences,” President Museveni wrote. “His Holiness Pope Francis will be remembered as an extraordinary spiritual leader and a deeply respected theologian.”
The President commended the late pope’s advocacy for peace, justice, and inclusivity, noting his notable efforts in engaging other religious denominations such as Muslims and Orthodox Christians.
“He was a religious leader who was truly in the Kisinde (track) of Jesus, as taught in the parable of the Good Samaritan in the book of Luke,” Museveni said, emphasizing Pope Francis’ global mission of love, unity, and service to humanity.
Uganda, a country with a significant Catholic population, has had strong ties with the Vatican. Pope Francis made a historic visit to Uganda in 2015, during which he praised the Ugandan Martyrs and encouraged peace and unity across Africa.
The nation is expected to hold special memorial services in churches and cathedrals in honor of the fallen pontiff. The Uganda Episcopal Conference is working with state officials to coordinate national mourning events.
President Museveni concluded his message with words of solidarity:
“We stand with Catholics in Uganda and around the globe during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
As the Vatican prepares for Pope Francis’ funeral in St. Peter’s Square, tributes continue to pour in from world leaders, religious figures, and ordinary believers touched by the legacy of a pope whose humility and compassion left an indelible mark on modern history.
