Summary:
- He expressed concern about Uganda’s declining moral standards, citing issues such as disrespect, financial inequality, and the rise of immoral acts during the COVID-19 lockdown.
KAMPALA: The Emeritus Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Henry Luke Orombi, has lauded the 11th Parliament for passing the contentious Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, describing homosexuality as “dehumanizing” and arguing that it devalues humanity.
“Homosexuality is dehumanizing; it makes those involved less than animals,” Orombi declared during a recent address, commending legislators for their resolve despite international backlash.
He expressed concern about Uganda’s declining moral standards, citing issues such as disrespect, financial inequality, and the rise of immoral acts during the COVID-19 lockdown.
“Ugandans, our moral standards are very low. We no longer respect each other as we should. During the lockdown, immoral activities surged incest became rampant, and young girls were impregnated,” Orombi said.
“Homosexuality is a Threat to God’s Plan”
Orombi attributed the rise of homosexuality to Western influence and technology, asserting that the practice contradicts the biblical mandate of procreation.
He posed a rhetorical question: “How can homosexuals fulfill God’s command to multiply and fill the earth if they indulge in such acts?”
Citing Genesis 1, Orombi lamented the erosion of family values and the pollution of the younger generation.
“God commanded us to multiply, subdue the earth, and rule over creation. Homosexuality breaks this blessing,” he said, urging Ugandans to prioritize family and moral uprightness.
A Call for Repentance:
In a fiery appeal, Orombi urged Uganda’s leaders to repent, accusing them of failing both God and the people they serve. “Let us return to God. As leaders, we have failed God and our people. The Spirit of God calls us to honesty and accountability,” he emphasized.
He also encouraged Speaker Anita Among to remain steadfast despite international criticism.
“Thank you for standing firm, Madam Speaker. No matter what they do to you, you stood your ground. Uganda has many beautiful places you can explore without needing to travel abroad.” He said.
Speaker Among Seeks Forgiveness:
Speaker Anita Among used the same platform to ask Ugandans for forgiveness on behalf of Parliament, acknowledging its shortcomings and committing to a moral renewal.
“As a legislature, our actions may have hurt some people knowingly or unknowingly. We seek forgiveness and aim to cleanse this institution, though it will not happen in one day,” she remarked during the end-of-year thanksgiving prayers at Parliament.
She also addressed the allegations of corruption, nepotism, and wasteful public expenditure that have tainted Parliament’s image.
“We know these criticisms exist, but we are committed to rebuilding trust. Cleansing this institution is a process, and we are here to repent for ourselves and our predecessors.”
A Unified Parliament:
Speaker Among highlighted the unity between her and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, describing it as a model for future leadership.
“This is the person I am mentoring for the 13th Parliament. Our unity is something to celebrate, and it demonstrates that this is the most united Parliament in our history.”
As Uganda grapples with societal and moral challenges, Emeritus Archbishop Orombi’s passionate call for repentance and Speaker Among’s commitment to institutional reform signal a critical moment for the nation to reflect on its values and future trajectory.
