Tension at Lubaga as Special Mass for Dr. Besigye Fails to Proceed

KAMPALA — An atmosphere of tension and uncertainty engulfed Lubaga Cathedral on Monday February 23, 2026 after a planned special mass requested by Winnie Byanyima for her husband, detained opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, did not proceed as earlier anticipated.

The development drew large crowds of worshippers, political supporters, and civil society actors, many of whom had gathered in expectation of the service.

Service Called Off Amid Controversy

According to individuals involved in organising the event, the mass had initially received clearance from Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, the head of the Archdiocese of Kampala. However, organisers claimed the service was later halted following what they described as a direct intervention by President Yoweri Museveni.

Several organisers and attendees alleged that the President personally contacted the Archbishop, advising against the conduct of the mass. These claims could not be independently verified by Uganda Today at the time of publication, and no official statement had been issued by State House or the Archdiocese regarding the matter.

Sources familiar with the situation further asserted that the President cited ongoing investigations linked to an intelligence report concerning the planned service.

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Consultation with Papal Nuncio

Amid the reported developments, church sources indicated that Archbishop Ssemogerere sought guidance from the Papal Nuncio to Uganda at Mbuya. The nature and outcome of those consultations remain unclear, but the move highlighted the sensitivity surrounding the aborted service.

Neither the Archdiocese nor the Vatican diplomatic mission had publicly commented on the matter by press time.

Cathedral Fills to Near Capacity

Despite the uncertainty, Lubaga Cathedral reportedly filled close to capacity, with a diverse cross-section of Ugandans turning up in solidarity. Witnesses described a subdued but resolute mood among attendees.

Notable figures seen at the cathedral included opposition politicians, former Katikkiro of Buganda Joseph Mulwanyamuli Ssemogerere, Out going Lord Mayor of Kampala Erias Lukwago, President of Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) Mugisha Muntu, PFF chairmam Ambassador Wasswa Biriggwa, Lewis Rubongoya NUP’s Secretary General, leader of opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, human rights advocates, and long-time associates of Dr. Besigye. Security presence around the cathedral was also visibly heightened.

Winnie Byanyima Leads Prayers

With no priest stepping forward to conduct the mass and the cathedral’s sound system remaining unused, Winnie Byanyima addressed the congregation directly. Standing before the faithful, she led prayers in what attendees described as an improvised but emotionally charged moment.

Participants said the absence of the usual liturgical structure did little to diminish the symbolic weight of the gathering.

Reactions After the Gathering

Following the prayers, several attendees voiced disappointment and concern over the circumstances surrounding the halted service.

Lewis Rubongoya’s comment widely echoed among sections of the congregation read:

“What happened at Lubaga Cathedral today is most unfortunate. History will remember how an Archbishop of the Catholic Church received a call ordering him not to conduct a mass for Dr. Kizza Besigye and other political prisoners. We appreciate the many Ugandans who turned up in solidarity.”

Other attendees emphasised themes of unity, faith, and the role of religious spaces in moments of national debate.

Awaiting Official Clarification

As of publication, official clarification from both State House and the Catholic Church hierarchy had not been issued. The incident is nevertheless likely to fuel broader discussions on the intersection of politics, religion, and civil liberties in Uganda.

Uganda Today will continue to follow the story as more information becomes available.

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