Bishop Eciru Urges Politicians to Be “Pilgrims of Hope” Ahead of 2026 Elections
The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt Rev Dr Joseph Eciru Oliach, has called on political leaders, candidates, and the faithful to remain pilgrims of hope as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections.
Bishop Eciru made the appeal while preaching during the closing celebrations of the Jubilee Year 2025 at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Soroti.
The Jubilee Year was celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” encouraging believers to pray, live, and act with hope in challenging times.
Addressing a congregation that included political leaders, candidates, and cultural leaders, the Bishop emphasized that hope is essential for society.
“We remain pilgrims of hope until our eternal destiny. We must remain pilgrims of hope and, indeed, witnesses of hope because the world needs hope,” Bishop Eciru said.
He noted that hope is needed at every level of society, stressing that families, the youth and the nation all require hope to thrive.
He particularly highlighted the role of politicians, saying they need hope “in a very special way,” especially as the country approaches the election period.
Bishop Eciru prayed for peaceful campaigns and elections, calling upon all stakeholders to observe peace, tolerance, and mutual respect. He urged leaders and supporters alike to reject violence and embrace dialogue for the good of the country.
“We remain pilgrims of hope,” he reiterated, urging leaders to be examples and witnesses of hope to the people they serve.
Vice President Jessica Alupo, who attended the prayers, thanked Bishop Eciru for organizing the special intercessions and appreciated politicians and candidates for responding to the call to pray together.
She thanked God for what she described as a miracle of going unopposed and encouraged leaders to always seek God’s guidance.
The Vice President pledged to mobilize resources for the construction of a girls’ dormitory at Father Hilders Primary School.
She also revealed that the government has secured funds for the construction of the Kumi–Serere and Kagwara road.
In addition, she said the government has withdrawn soldiers from the lakes and released over 80 billion shillings for cattle restocking and rehabilitation in Teso, Lango, and Acholi sub-regions, noting that the process will begin soon.
The Jubilee Year closing prayers were well attended, drawing a large number of cultural leaders, political leaders and election candidates from across the region, underscoring the shared desire for peace, unity and hope as the country heads toward the 2026 elections.
