Rukungiri – The Bishop of North Kigezi diocese in Rukungiri district Rt Rev Onesimus Asiimwe has warned religious leaders across the country against engaging themselves in partisan politics and misleading the flock.
While preaching at the installation ceremony of Ven .Amos Katushabe and his wife Catherine as the 1st Archdeacon of Kyabugashe Archdeaconary that took place at St Peter’s Church of Uganda in Nyakagyeme sub- county yesterday 6th April 2025, Bishop Onesimus banned religious leaders from engaging in partisan politics as country draws nearer to the 2026 general polls.
” Ugandans are expected to elect new leaders between January 12 and February 9, 2026, according to the Electoral Commission (E.C) roadmap and I have noticed that most of you ( Religious leaders) have as already taken sides. That practice misleads the flock, I therefore warn you as early as possible to stop that habit.” Bishop Onesimus said.
Bishop Onesimus also urged religious leaders to be vigilant, protect the church, build peace and unity during and after the political season.
“Nomination of candidates will commence in May this year and people will be canvassing for votes. During that period, I am requesting you to be vigilant, remain strong to protect the church and the congregation. Stand strong to maintain peace and love in the church. The political parties have different symbols; Christians should not put on party attire and campaign in the church.” Bishop Onesimus warned.
He cautioned Christians against donning political party attire and conducting campaigns in the church.
Speaking as the guest of honor, the minister of Security Rtd Maj Gen Jim K Muhwezi asked the church to support the government wealth creation programs like Parish Development Model program to uplift the living standards of the church and their own wellbeing.
” When we empower Christians economically, they will support church activities because they will be financially stable thus development “. Minister Muhwezi said.
He also called for co-operation between the christians and the newly installed Archdeacon to develop their Archdeaconary.
” Co-operation is the way to go, communities that develop work together. So co-operate with your Archdeacon and you will see things moving on well”. Minister Muhwezi advised Christians.
The minister also pledged his support the Archdeacon in developing the Archdeaconary .
” Of course as government, we shall support you because we well know that church is doing a great in shaping the lives of many Ugandans. So don’t worry we are with you in everything “. Minister Muhwezi said.
The newly installed Archdeacon Ven. Amos Katushabe promised to work hand in hand with Christians and develop the Archdeaconary.
” This is a young Archdeaconary, fellow christians you have my support and I will work with you closely and am sure we shall succeed because with God everything is possible ” Ven Katushabe said.
About Kyabugashe Archdeaconary.
Kyabugashe Archdeaconary is a new and a young Archdeaconary in the North Kigezi diocese. The Archdeaconary was curved out of Nyakagyeme Archdeaconary and it is now the 10th Archdeaconary in the diocese.
The new Archdeaconary is located in Nyakagyeme sub- county Rukungiri district at about 5 kilometers from Rukungiri main town.
Ven Amos Katushabe is the first Archdeacon of the Archdeaconary and he was transferred from Kakinga Archdeaconary in Kebisoni town council.
