Rev. Fr. Marius Byamukama Says He Is Ready to Die Rather Than Betray Christians Over Election Injustice

Rev. Fr. Marius Byamukama has made a strong and emotional declaration against what he described as injustice and “mafialism” that characterised the previous elections, stating that he would rather die than betray Christians by remaining silent.

Speaking publicly, the outspoken cleric said his conscience would not allow him to ignore alleged electoral injustices that, in his view, undermined truth, fairness, and the will of the people.

He stressed that his stance was motivated by faith and responsibility to his Christian community.

“I am ready to die but not ready to betray my Christians because of the injustice in the previous election, which was coupled with mafialism,” Rev. Fr. Byamukama said.

“I am not ready to betray my Christians. I am ready to die for speaking the truth, because after all, the only way to leave this world is death.

”The cleric’s remarks have since attracted wide attention, drawing reactions from both religious circles and political observers.

Supporters have praised him for what they describe as courage and moral clarity, while critics argue that religious leaders should avoid politically charged statements.

Rev. Fr. Byamukama, however, maintained that speaking against injustice is not a political act but a moral obligation rooted in Christian teachings. He said the Church has a duty to stand with the oppressed and to speak truth to power, especially when communities feel marginalised or ignored.

He further noted that fear, intimidation, or threats would not deter him from voicing concerns he believes affect the spiritual and social wellbeing of Christians.

According to the cleric, remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing would amount to complicity.The statement comes at a time when debate continues over the credibility of past elections, with various stakeholders, including civil society organisations and religious leaders, raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and democratic governance.

In recent years, religious leaders have increasingly played a vocal role in national discourse, often calling for peaceful elections, respect for human rights, and unity among citizens. Rev. Fr. Byamukama’s comments add to this growing chorus, though his language stands out for its intensity and personal resolve.

Observers say his remarks reflect growing frustration among sections of the clergy and the wider population who feel that electoral injustices have gone unaddressed, deepening public mistrust in democratic institutions.

As the country continues to grapple with questions of governance and accountability, Rev. Fr. Byamukama insists that his message is not one of incitement but of truth and faithfulness to Christian values, even at great personal cost.