The Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, Bishop of the North Kigezi Diocese, has issued a firm warning to religious leaders, urging them to refrain from engaging in partisan politics ahead of the 2026 general elections. Instead, he called on clergy to focus on fostering peace, unity, and spiritual growth within their congregations and communities.
Bishop Onesimus delivered this message on Sunday, April 6, 2026, during the installation ceremony of Venerable Amos Katushabe and his wife Catherine as the new Archdeacon of Kyabugashe Archdeaconry in Nyakagyeme Sub-county, Rukungiri District.
“The primary focus of religious leaders should remain on building strong spiritual foundations and spreading the gospel,” Religious leaders must prioritize their sacred duties and avoid being drawn into the divisive arena of partisan politics.” Bishop Onesimus emphasized
He further urged heads of laity to be vigilant in safeguarding the integrity of the church and to actively promote harmony and unity throughout the election period and beyond.
In his remarks, the newly installed Archdeacon, Venerable Amos Katushabe, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and called upon Christians to support him in his ministry.
He also unveiled ambitious plans for the expansion of Kyabugashe Church of Uganda, a project estimated to cost four billion shillings, appealing to the Christian community for collective support to bring the vision to life.
The installation ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the chief guest, Maj. Gen. Jim Katugugu Muhwezi, Rujumbura County Member of Parliament and Minister of Security.
Minister Muhwezi commended the church for its vital role in shaping responsible citizens and improving livelihoods through spiritual guidance and community outreach programs.
“The government deeply appreciates the church’s contribution to national development by nurturing morally upright and economically empowered individuals,” he noted.
However, the Minister also raised concerns about religious sectarianism, warning that it could influence voters to choose leaders based on faith affiliation rather than merit.
He praised the prevailing interfaith harmony in Rukungiri District and expressed hope that this spirit of unity would continue to drive the region’s progress.
Bishop Onesimus’s timely message highlights the crucial responsibility of religious institutions in preserving social cohesion, especially in politically sensitive times.
By encouraging the clergy to maintain neutrality, the Bishop seeks to ensure that the church remains a unifying and stabilizing force, capable of ministering to all members of society regardless of political alignment.
