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 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 the reason 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 the discontent grew, several members of the congregation stood up and walked out, while others, including the 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 the Kabale District Woman Member of Parliament.
Other attendees included Sam Arineitwe, the Kabale Central Division Chairman and mayoral aspirant, and Henry Nasaasira, the Kabale Central Division Speaker, who is also vying for the Division Chairmanship.
After being given a chance to speak, Michael Byamungu urged the congregation to support small-scale businesses as a way to boost household incomes and fight poverty.
He also encouraged voters to choose leaders based on their ability to deliver services, rather than being influenced by religious, tribal, or financial factors.
Sheikh Kamugisha, also the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Wakiso, called for increased investment in children’s education as a foundation for a prosperous future.
He also encouraged the congregation to embrace government initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), and to use the funds productively to uplift households and reduce poverty.
The event successfully raised Shs 2,010,000, which will be used to purchase a new generator for the church.
