A group of Christians from Luweero Diocese has recently announced their intention to sue the administration of the Church of Uganda, alleging mishandling of the 4th bishop election process. In a letter addressed to Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, seven Anglicans attached to the diocese have raised concerns about the House of Bishops’ decision to revoke the election of Rev Can Godfrey Kasana as the 4th bishop of Luweero Diocese.
The group, led by David Lule Mutyaba, a congregant at St. Peter’s Church of Uganda in Bukalasa, claims that the House of Bishops did not adequately consider various factors before nullifying the election. They argue that this decision was made hastily and without proper assessment.
These Christians are now seeking legal recourse and have submitted a notice of intention to sue the Church of Uganda administration. Their aim is to halt the resolutions of the House of Bishops regarding the revocation of the Bishop-elect’s election.
The controversy surrounding the bishop election has caused a stir in Luweero Diocese. On July 9, Archbishop Kaziimba assumed the pastoral responsibility of the diocese following the retirement of Bishop Eridard Nsubuga. During a media address in Madi Diocese on the same day, the Archbishop warned politicians in Luweero against interfering in Church matters and making public statements regarding the ongoing processes.
Earlier this month, the Church of Uganda announced the nullification of Rev. Canon Godfrey Kasana’s election as the 4th Bishop of Luweero Diocese. The decision was reached during a meeting of the House of Bishops held on June 28, 2023, at Kabalega Resort Hotel in Hoima. According to Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church, the decision was based on credible information suggesting that the integrity of the Bishop-elect was misrepresented during the nomination and election process, thereby rendering the election invalid.
Expressing regret for the immediate impact of their decision on Luweero Diocese and the Bishop-elect and his family, Rev. Canon Ongeng emphasized that the resolution of this matter is their utmost priority. The House of Bishops has consequently instructed the Diocesan Nominations Committee to initiate fresh nominations within a month, concluding on July 31, 2023. The House of Bishops will then review the new nominations and proceed with the election of the next Bishop of Luweero on August 1, 2023. The consecration and enthronement of the 4th Bishop of Luweero are scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Luweero.
The legal action threatened by the dissatisfied group of Christians adds a new dimension to the ongoing controversy surrounding the bishop election process in Luweero Diocese. As the Church of Uganda prepares for the selection of the next Bishop, the outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the diocese and the Church as a whole.
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