The event, traditionally held on New Year's Eve, has been a highlight of his ministry for the past 15 years, drawing thousands of worshippers.
This year, however, things took an unexpected turn.
“We have always been welcomed here,” Sserwadda said, visibly disappointed.
“Why has it changed now? Are we no longer respected?” The pastor revealed that strict conditions imposed by Sports Minister Peter Ogwang made it impossible to organize the anticipated gathering of 45,000 people.
According to Sserwadda, the communication and support his team once enjoyed from stadium officials have disappeared.
“Even the gateman now treats us differently,” he lamented.
This shift has left many wondering why such a well-established event faced last-minute obstacles.
The stadium's management explained that the decision was tied to preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches.
The facility was recently upgraded, and the government is keen on protecting its infrastructure from potential damage caused by large crowds.
But Sserwadda was not satisfied with this explanation.
“We have held peaceful gatherings here for years without causing any harm. Why now? What has changed?” he questioned.
Despite the setback, help came from an unexpected source. The Buganda Kingdom stepped in to support the pastor’s event.
The Katikkiro, the Kingdom's prime minister, authorized the use of space near Kabaka’s Lake, offering participants an alternative venue. Additionally, palace grounds were made available for parking.
“We are grateful to the Kingdom for standing with us,” Sserwadda said. “When one door closes, God opens another.”
The alternative venue coincided with the Kingdom's Enkuuka celebration, but both events managed to proceed smoothly.
Pastor Sserwadda is not the only religious leader facing restrictions on public venues. Recently, Pastor Tom Mugerwa was denied access to Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. Similarly, Pastors Aloysius Bugingo and Jackson Ssenyonga have encountered difficulties at other locations.
“There seems to be a pattern,” Sserwadda observed.
“Are we being sidelined because we are religious leaders? This is not fair.”
Pastor Sserwadda has hinted at taking legal action against the stadium and government authorities.
“We have a contract. They cannot just block us without reason. I will fight for justice,” he declared.
The pastor also emphasized the importance of freedom of worship.
“We shall not be silenced,” he said. “God’s work will continue, no matter the challenges.”
Meanwhile, Salt Media, owned by Pastor Bugingo, has been praised for its exemplary treatment of journalists.
Gabriel Buule, a Daily Monitor journalist, commended the organization for paying its staff on time and fulfilling its obligations.
Many are watching closely to see how this situation unfolds. Pastor Sserwadda’s resilience has inspired his followers, with one saying, “God’s work will never stop. We stand with our pastor.”
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