Theologians in Africa Demand Release of Ugandan Catholic Priest Held over Alleged Security Threats

“PACTPAN, a community of Africans committed to the sanctity of life, the sacredness of our land, and the universal brotherhood of our peoples, expresses its grave concern over the continued detention of a Catholic priest in Uganda and the growing pattern of repression against civil society actors, peaceful protesters, and members of the clergy,” the team of African theologians wrote in their statement to the press.

“PACTPAN therefore calls for… the immediate and unconditional release of Father Deusdedit Ssekabira and all individuals held in connection with peaceful civic action,” the theologians said.

They further called for “an end to the intimidation and harassment of clergy, activists, and peaceful protesters” in the country that faced scrutiny from human rights groups over reports of enforced disappearances and detention without trial in the period that led to the country’s January 15 elections.

The theologians also called for the opening of a national dialogue involving religious leaders, civil society, and political actors on the protection of civic space and democratic freedoms.

According to PACTPAN, the arrest and detention of Fr. Ssekabira, alongside numerous civil rights activists in Uganda, reflects a troubling and recurring pattern in Uganda. 

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“This situation raises serious questions about the willingness of the government to protect its citizens, uphold constitutional rights, and guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” the theologians said.

They said that arrests and detentions had increased in the recent past, and explained, “On 23 July 2024, police arrested more than 45 Ugandans who were peacefully exercising their constitutional rights by demanding accountability from those elected to represent them. Similarly, on 1 August 2025, twelve young environmental and climate-justice defenders were arrested. Their only offence was seeking justice and responsible governance.”

The theologians described Fr. Ssekabira’s abduction and detention incommunicado for weeks as a “particularly alarming” situation that they said stands in stark contrast to the promises made by the current government. 

“Ugandans still recall with hope the commitment made in 1986, when President Yoweri Museveni affirmed that Ugandans are entitled to democratic governance, not as a favour, but as a right,” they said, and added, “What we witness today appears to be a painful departure from that promise.”

The theologians said that the increasing use of security forces to suppress civic voices risks turning Ugandans against one another and undermining trust in public institutions. 

They appealed to Ugandan police and the military to protect all Ugandans regardless of political affiliation, opinion, or social position. 

“We also call on the President to remember his responsibility as the leader of the entire nation, including critics, opposition members, and peaceful dissenters,” the theologians said, and added, “Freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest are inalienable human rights.”

“We emphasise that Fr. Deusdedit and the detained activists are not enemies of the State. They are not the cause of the hardship faced by Ugandans. Protest is not a crime. Their struggle is part of a broader effort to secure a future in which coming generations can inherit a nation grounded in justice, accountability, and hope, the very dream of Uganda’s founding vision,” they said.

PACTPAN reaffirmed its “prayerful solidarity” with the people of Uganda, saying, “We appeal to the nation’s leadership to act with wisdom, restraint, and moral courage, and to work collaboratively with religious and civil movements to build a just and lasting peace.”

“The strength of a nation is shown not by the silencing of its citizens, but by its capacity to listen, to dialogue, and to protect the dignity of all,” the team of theologians said.

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Agnes Aineah is a Kenyan journalist with a background in digital and newspaper reporting. She holds a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism from the Aga Khan University, Graduate School of Media and Communications and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communications from Kenya's Moi University. Agnes currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.