Drama as Christians Walk Out After Priest Bans Politicians from Speaking at Kabale Church Event

Kabale: Tensions escalated at Makanga Church of Uganda in Kabale Municipality when Rev. Judith Twongyeirwe, the Parish Priest of St. Luke Butobere Church of Uganda, announced that no politicians would be allowed to speak during a fundraising service, leading to drama as some members of the congregation walked out in protest.

The controversy began on April 27 when Rev. Twongyeirwe declared that politicians would not be given a platform during the event, citing concerns that political campaigns could disrupt the religious gathering.

She emphasized that this was why a non-politician, Baker Kwarikunda, had been invited as the Guest of Honour.

Her decision was met with immediate boos from the congregation. Many churchgoers questioned why politicians had been invited if they were not allowed to speak.

As discontent grew, several members of the congregation stood up and walked out, while others, including church wardens, approached the priest in an attempt to convince her to reconsider.

After a prolonged discussion with the wardens, Rev. Twongyeirwe reversed her decision and allowed each politician one minute to introduce themselves, state their contributions, and mention the political office they were vying for.

The event aimed to raise Shs 2 million to purchase a church generator and attracted several prominent politicians, including Michael Byamungu and Sheikh Kassim Kamugisha, both hopefuls for the Kabale Municipality parliamentary seat, and Enid Origumisiriza, a candidate for Kabale District Woman Member of Parliament.

Other attendees included Kabale Central Division Chairman Sam Arineitwe, who is vying for the mayoral seat, and Kabale Central Division Speaker Henry Nasaasira, who is contesting for the Division Chairmanship.