The Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, Paul Ssemogerere, has warned that unchecked social media influence is quietly reshaping Ugandan society, displacing traditional family guidance and eroding moral values, with damaging consequences for families and young people.
Presiding over Christmas Mass at Rubaga Cathedral, Archbishop Ssemogerere said values that were once passed on through parents and elders are increasingly being shaped by “strangers online.”
He noted that this shift is contributing to family breakdown, early exposure of children to harmful content, moral confusion among young people, and growing loneliness disguised as digital togetherness.
“Uncensored social media have quietly entered our homes and, in many cases, displaced conversations and guidance,” the Archbishop said, adding that the negative effects of this change are now clearly visible across society.
Turning to governance and public conduct, Archbishop Ssemogerere emphasized the supremacy of the rule of law and warned against abuse of authority.
“No authority, no uniform, no office grants anyone the right to degrade or unlawfully harm another human being,” he said, stressing that the law must be applied equally, consistently, and without fear or favour.
Addressing the political climate, the Archbishop cautioned leaders and the public against inflammatory rhetoric, especially during periods of heightened political activity.
“Emotions naturally rise and tensions increase. Christmas calls us to lower, not inflame them,” he said.
He appealed to political leaders and candidates to place national interest above personal ambition, urging them to reject incitement and choose language that promotes healing rather than division.
“I therefore appeal to political leaders and candidates to place the nation above personal ambitions, reject incitement, and speak words that heal rather than divide,” he said.
The Christmas Mass at Rubaga Cathedral was attended by several dignitaries, including National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine; the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga; and Minister of State for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo, who represented the government, among others.
The Archbishop urged Ugandans to use the Christmas season as a time for reflection, responsible speech, and renewed commitment to moral values, peace, and national unity.
