Good governance is the foundation of a thriving society
By Msgr. John Wynand Katende
Posted on: Thursday, 28th May 2026
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."- Luke 12:48
During his first visit to Africa, Pope Leo XIV, in his prophetic and pastoral capacity, criticized tyrants who cause political instability, economic stagnation, and human rights crises. Africa has a long history of grappling with such authoritarian rulers who consistently undermine the continent's vast potential to develop.
The philosophical definition of a tyrant is a ruler who prioritizes their own desires over the welfare of the citizenry. They maintain power through intimidation, surveillance, and violence rather than popular consent. Independent media, trade unions, and alternative political parties are dismantled to remove any obstacles to the ruler's decisions. Laws are either ignored or manipulated to serve the ruler’s immediate will rather than being applied consistently to all citizens.
Genesis 1:27 says that human beings were made in God’s image. It means they are uniquely created to reflect God's character, possess inherent dignity, and serve as His representatives on earth. It further implies that people deserve good governance as a fundamental moral right rooted in human dignity. Good governance is known to be the foundation of a thriving society, empowering communities through transparent, accountable, and equitable leadership. The principles of servant leadership and social corporate responsibility, hereby, apply.
Citizens not only deserve good governance, but they also have an active duty to participate in public life, hold leaders accountable, and vote responsibly. This calls for observance of the principle of subsidiarity, whereby decisions are made at the most local and appropriate level whenever possible, ensuring that higher-level authorities do not interfere with the natural responsibilities of families and local communities.
Restoring a sense of dignity and public duty can help rebuild the trust that has steadily declined in modern democracies. It shifts the focus from winning elections to the long-term well-being of the electorate. It invites leaders to represent everyday citizens. That is the hope of the electorate.
Amidst claims of widespread fraud, voting irregularities, violence, and a lack of transparency in the elections in Uganda, the newly elected Head of State, members of parliament, and other lower ranks are now set to do the needful for the next five years. They took the mandatory Oath of Allegiance, declaring loyalty to the sovereign State of Uganda and its Constitution. All, except one, took the oath, invoking "Almighty God" while holding a holy book.
Taking the oath of office reveals three pivotal concepts: God as the origin of all authority, servant leadership, the obligation of nobility, and the need for supportive advisers to the Head of State. In theology, God is seen as the supreme ruler over the universe. All earthly authorities are considered delegated stewards who will ultimately be held accountable for how they exercise their power. (Romans 13:1).
Since rulers derive their authority from God, they are expected to be epitomes of honor, courage, and faith, serving as role models for the general populace. This addresses the rationale behind “noblesse oblige” (nobility obligates) and the title “Honorable”.
Proverbs 11:14 says, “Without wise leadership, a nation is in trouble, but with good counselors there is safety.” Good leaders surround themselves with objective, virtuous advisors, ensuring stability, justice, and protection for the vulnerable. It encourages leaders to seek advice rooted in virtue and ethical principles rather than in sycophancy/flattery or self-interest.
Parliament plays a foundational role in promoting democracy and good governance by acting as the supreme lawmaking body, the voice of the electorate, and the primary check on executive power. It ensures democratic accountability, approves national budgets, and guides the state's political and legal direction. Parliament frequently reviews and approves key appointments made by the head of state to prevent abuses of power. Parliament must, hence, act independently to preserve democratic governance and maintain a healthy separation of powers among the state's branches.
St. Paul urges us to pray for our leaders that God may grant them the Wisdom of Solomon and surround them with wise counselors, to make just, fair decisions that benefit their communities. We pray for their families to bear the weight of their duties. So help them, Lord. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)