By KT Reporter
The Mayor of Lira City Council, Sam Atul, has called on religious institutions to invite politicians to pray in church without expecting donations, gifts, or financial contributions in return.
Atul appealed to a Christmas Mass at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, Lira, presided over by Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, where hundreds of Christians gathered to celebrate the festive season.
In the Lango sub-region, it is common practice for politicians to be invited to church functions with an expectation to make substantial cash donations, contribute to building projects, or provide vehicles.
These contributions are often seen as a measure of a leader’s generosity and commitment to local development.
However, Atul explained that such expectations have sometimes discouraged politicians from attending church, fearing high spending or taking out loans to meet the anticipated contributions.
Atul also informed the Bishop of his initiative to hold morning devotions every Monday to provide a spiritual space for leaders to pray without pressure.
Responding, Bishop Wanok emphasized that the Catholic Church welcomes everybody for prayers without expecting anything in return.
He further argued that churches are non-partisan spaces where anyone can seek guidance and support from God, and reminded leaders that they must remain down-to-earth, rather than just appearing approachable during election periods.
The remarks align with advice from the Electoral Commission (EC), which has urged faith-based institutions to refrain from inviting potential candidates for fundraising during election periods, as such acts may be interpreted as attempts to sway voters—an offense under electoral law.
By separating prayer from politics, Atul and Bishop Wanok’s message underscores the role of churches as spaces of genuine spiritual reflection, where faith can flourish without the pressure of financial or political expectation.
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