The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called upon the government to safeguard Church property owned by the Diocese of Kumi, amidst rising concerns over criminal activities targeting Churches, land, schools, and other assets.
Archbishop Kaziimba expressed dismay over the apparent protection extended to criminal groups by certain high-ranking security personnel and politicians, exacerbating insecurity within the Diocese. He denounced the actions of these criminals, highlighting their disregard for peace and the rule of law.
Addressing key stakeholders in the Diocese of Kumi, including clergy, lay readers, and government leaders, Archbishop Kaziimba condemned the alarming level of criminality plaguing the region. He recounted an incident where he was obstructed from entering St. James Church in Atutur by these groups, despite assurances of peace from security forces, emphasizing the urgent need to halt such disruptions.
Furthermore, Archbishop Kaziimba lamented the unjust confiscation of Church property, citing an example where land donated by the family of the Late Besweri Opiyo was seized and Churches rebranded, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
In a media interview, Bishop Michael Okwi Esakhan of Kumi Diocese disclosed that 46 Churches have been confiscated by the Reformed Anglican Church, led by Charles Oode Okunya, whose election as the Second Bishop of Kumi Diocese was annulled by the House of Bishops. Bishop Esakhan decried the use of violence by these groups and appealed for government intervention to prevent further escalation of tensions.
During his pastoral visit, Archbishop Kaziimba commissioned several Churches and projects while attempting to reclaim others seized by criminal elements. Projects inaugurated included infrastructure developments and the launch of a management system for Kumi Hospital, aimed at enhancing decision-making processes.
The Archbishop’s plea for government action underscores the critical need to uphold the sanctity of Church property and promote peace within the Diocese of Kumi, signaling a collective call for decisive measures to address the escalating crisis.