Kampala, Uganda — Winnie Byanyima, the wife of detained opposition leader Kizza Besigye, has revealed that she was informed by Paul Ssemogerere that President Yoweri Museveni requested the postponement of a planned prayer Mass in honour of Besigye and other political prisoners. The decision, she said, came ahead of a scheduled service at Lubaga Cathedral.
Byanyima told journalists that Archbishop Ssemogerere personally called her to convey the president’s message that the prayers should not go ahead without further review. The President reportedly indicated he wanted time to investigate the intentions behind the event before allowing it to proceed.
According to Byanyima, the archbishop explained that Museveni had expressed concerns that the Mass might have political undertones and therefore asked for a postponement until after the investigation. The Archbishop also reportedly told her that the President would later communicate his position directly to the Church.
Byanyima said she had personally tried to reach President Museveni to clarify the purpose of the prayers, which were intended as a spiritual gathering for Besigye and other detainees. She said she was waiting for a call from the President and planned to assure him that, even if he believes Besigye is guilty, he remains innocent until proven so, and regardless of any outcome, he is a human being deserving of love, care and compassion.
The prayer service had attracted significant public attention as supporters of Besigye gathered at the cathedral. However, the event was postponed after the presidential intervention, with many attendees still choosing to stay and sing hymns in solidarity.
The postponement has sparked debate about the role of political considerations in religious and social events, especially in the context of a high-profile trial that has drawn public concern over Besigye’s health and prolonged detention.
