By Richard Akandwanaho
Kabale
Rev. Fr. Mathias Kwehangana, a priest with Kabale diocese has called on the government to change the scheduled elections on 15th August 2025 to another different day.
According to the NRM elections roadmap, August 15th, 2025, is slated to be a polling day for local government council positions and councillors. (LCIII Chairpersons, Town Coucil/ Municipal Division Mayors and Councillors at Sub County level/Town Coucil/Municipal Division level).
However, Fr. Kwehangana noted that this date coincides with a significant Catholic feast, (Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary ) which is a holy day of obligation.
The priest expressed concern that holding elections on this day would be unfair to the Catholics in Uganda as they would do likely miss the voting as they mark the Church day.
He emphasized the importance of the state respecting Church programs and observances, especially on significant days like the Solemnity of the Assumption.
Fr. Kwehangana warned that if the government does not change the election date, many Catholics might not participate in the voting process, potentially leading to low voter turnout and misrepresentation of the majority’s voices.
He urged the government to prioritize harmonious leadership by respecting Church programs.
