Bishop Kibuuka Urges Government to Plan for Vendors Before Evictions, Warns of Rising Crime

The presiding Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, Jacinto Kibuuka, has criticized the government’s ongoing eviction of street and roadside vendors, calling for humane and well-planned alternatives before any enforcement is carried out.

Delivering his Easter Sunday homily at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Janda, Namugongo, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, Bishop Kibuuka described the evictions as “barbaric and heartless,” warning that they risk worsening poverty and triggering a rise in crime across the country.

“Those being evicted in a barbaric manner from different streets across the country are our people, people we work with, who vote, and whom we counsel and preach to,” he said. “They are filled with sorrow because these businesses are their only source of livelihood including school fees, food, and family support.”

The Bishop raised concern over vendors with existing financial obligations, including loans under government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and private financial services, questioning how they would meet their repayments after losing their livelihoods.

“We are not against trade Order,” he clarified, “but we ask: where has the government planned to relocate them? Evicting people without alternatives will only lead to unprecedented criminality, especially theft and thuggery, in the coming days.”

He further condemned the methods used in the evictions, warning that forceful approaches could incite violence and deepen public suffering. “This is Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, and such actions should not define us. Government must plan first before taking action,” he said.

Bishop Kibuuka also called on leaders at all levels to adopt compassionate leadership. “We must strive to wipe people’s tears rather than cause them. These are the people God entrusted to us, and we must lead them with kindness, not harshness,” he added.

In his sermon, the Bishop extended his message beyond national issues, urging prayers for global peace, particularly referencing tensions between Iran and Israel. He emphasized the sanctity of life and condemned all forms of violence.

“No one deserves to kill another, whether young or unborn. Such acts are evil and bring pain to humanity. Let us pray for renewal, forgiveness, and reconciliation during this Easter season,” he said.

Echoing the Bishop’s message, Francis Xavier Bbossa, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, urged parents to take a more active role in guiding and protecting their children in an increasingly challenging social environment.

He also announced plans for upcoming meetings to organize celebrations marking 10 years of the church’s presence in Uganda, a milestone expected to bring together members and well-wishers for reflection and thanksgiving.