Parliament pays tribute to late Pope Francis
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His 12-year papacy was widely regarded as transformative, with many describing him as a global statesman whose message transcended religious boundaries.
Speaker Anita Among on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, MPs praised the Pontiff’s enduring commitment to justice and simplicity. (Photo by Maria Wamala)
By John Odyek and Dedan Kimathi
Journalists @New Vision
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Uganda’s Parliament has paid glowing tribute to the late Pope Francis, honouring his legacy of humility, compassion, and global moral leadership.
During a plenary sitting chaired by Speaker Anita Among on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, MPs praised the Pontiff’s enduring commitment to justice and simplicity—values they urged all leaders and citizens to emulate.
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His 12-year papacy was widely regarded as transformative, with many describing him as a global statesman whose message transcended religious boundaries.
A life of humble service
Moving the motion, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja described Pope Francis as a leader of “distinction” who redefined papal leadership through personal sacrifice and humility.
“He lived a life of compassion, kindness, and selflessness. He gave up many privileges associated with the papacy,” Nabbanja said, recalling a personal audience with the Pope in 2023 that left a deep impression on her.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja described Pope Francis as a leader of “distinction” who redefined papal leadership through personal sacrifice and humility. (Photo by Maria Wamala)
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi seconded the motion, describing Francis as a bridge-builder who fostered dialogue among Christians, Muslims, Jews, and non-believers.
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi. (Photo by Maria Wamala)
“The Pope was more than a religious figure. He was a voice of reason and compassion in a divided world. His legacy will endure among those who cherish truth, justice, and human dignity,” Ssenyonyi noted.
AG Kiryowa Kiwanuka.
Personal gestures and lasting impressions
MPs shared moving reflections on the Pope’s symbolic actions. Catherine Ndamira (NRM, Kabale District Woman MP) commended his modesty, noting that “he carried his own briefcase and emphasised service over authority.”
Michael Lulume Bayiga (DP, Buikwe County South) highlighted Pope Francis’ remarkable humility:
“I was humbled when I saw a picture of him bowing to kiss the feet of South Sudan’s leaders. If a catechist bent down to tie my shoelaces, I would faint. That was a profound gesture.”
(Photo by Maria Wamala)
Defence Minister, Jackson Oboth Oboth.
(L-R) Ministers David Muhoozi, Lillian Aber and Phiona Nyamutoro.
Environmental advocacy recognised
The Pope’s advocacy for environmental protection was also recognised. Christine Nakimwero (NUP, Kiboga District Woman MP) cited his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, which called for urgent global action to combat climate change.
“In the document, he wrote that ‘the earth is crying,’ urging governments to respond. Many heeded his call by adopting policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Nakimwero said.
Speaker Among shared that she had met Pope Francis eight times and praised his appreciation of Uganda’s religious heritage, especially its Uganda Martyrs and progressive refugee policies.
Pope Francis was laid to rest on April 26, 2025, at the Basilica of St Mary Major in the Vatican. After the tribute, Speaker Among directed that Parliament’s resolution be formally delivered to the Papal Nuncio in Uganda, Archbishop Luigi Bianco, who was present during the session.
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