By KT Reporter
There is heavy police deployment outside Christ’s Cathedral, Bugembe, amid fears of protests over the election of Grace Lubaale as the new Bishop of Busoga Diocese. Officers were stationed at entrances to the cathedral, checking congregants for any protest materials, while others were deployed along the surrounding routes to prevent large processions allegedly mobilized from nearby communities.
Earlier this week, the House of Bishops announced Lubaale as Bishop-elect to replace Paul Naimanhe, who is set to retire in December. Lubaale is scheduled to be consecrated as a substantive bishop in mid-December. His appointment has drawn mixed reactions. Despite expectations of unanimous celebration, some Christians have remained silent or openly protested. Christ’s Cathedral has remained closed, with dozens of congregants camping outside to demonstrate.
Protesters argue that although Lubaale is a Musoga from Kamuli District, he has served in Kampala Province, making him “foreign” to the local Christians. Some believe that the House of Bishops should have considered priests from within the diocese rather than appointing someone from outside. Joan Namugere said names of qualified reverends were submitted for consideration, but were ignored. She emphasized that while top church leaders have the final mandate, consultations within the diocese could have ensured a smoother process.
Eseza Namukuve noted that since the days of late Bishop Cyprian Bamwoze, Busoga Diocese has grown significantly, producing well-educated and experienced priests fit for leadership. Namukuve expressed disappointment that external candidates are being prioritized over homegrown clergy. However, some believe the church is not a democratic political space but a spiritual platform guided by God’s will.
Amos Isooba stated that the House of Bishops, ordained by God, has the authority to shepherd the congregation, and it is improper for members to publicly oppose their decisions. He likened this to biblical practices where God reserved leadership selection for Himself. Esteri Namukubembe added that the protests reflect a generational shift, with younger congregants more willing to challenge established church order compared to older members.
The selection process was controversial from the start. In August, Joseph Kintu and Mathias Katiko were initially dropped. Kintu faced allegations of fathering children out of wedlock, extortion, and corruption.
Katiko, known for his celibate life, was accused of scheming for the bishopric after marrying late in life. Katiko, serving as diocesan administrator, remained in the race against Lubaale, raising expectations that he, a cathedral favorite, would win.
Lubaale’s selection surprised many, prompting both silence and open outbursts among congregants. On Thursday, Cathedral Dean Joy Isabirye called for peace, urging Christians to accept Lubaale as God’s chosen leader. Meanwhile, Jinja City Resident Commissioner Richard Gulume, a senior member of the cathedral community, justified the police deployment as a precaution to avert chaos. He called on congregants to pray for a peaceful transition under their newly elected bishop.
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