By BM
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has issued a clear directive to all clergymen and women intending to contest in the upcoming general elections: they must first retire from active ministry.
Speaking during the All Clergy Conference held at Uganda Christian University in Mukono, Archbishop Kaziimba emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity and neutrality of the Church amidst the increasingly polarized political environment in Uganda.
His remarks were part of a broader address on the responsibilities and ethical conduct of clergy in modern society.
The Archbishop reminded the gathering that the Canon Laws of the Church of Uganda strictly prohibit ordained ministers from engaging in partisan politics while still in active ministry.
“Those who feel called to participate in elective politics must make a clear choice. They are required to retire from their clerical duties before embarking on a political path,” he said.
He added that this separation is not just a matter of legalism or tradition but a spiritual and moral responsibility.
“Our primary calling as clergy is to serve God’s people without discrimination regardless of tribe, political party, or status,” the Archbishop noted. “Once a priest openly sides with a political party or contests for a public office, it becomes difficult to maintain that impartiality.”
The directive comes at a time when Uganda is preparing for a hotly contested general election season.
With political tensions running high and communities becoming increasingly divided along party lines, the Archbishop’s statement serves as a timely reminder of the Church’s role as a stabilizing and unifying institution.
Archbishop Kaziimba also warned against the dangers of clerical involvement in partisan affairs, pointing out that such actions could damage the credibility of the Church and compromise its moral authority.
“We cannot allow the Church to be dragged into the mud of partisan politics. Once we lose our moral standing, we also lose our ability to speak truth to power and offer guidance to the nation,” he warned.
He further explained that while Christians, including members of the clergy, are citizens and have the right to participate in the political life of the country, there are boundaries that must be respected to preserve the mission and witness of the Church.
He urged priests to weigh their decisions carefully, reflecting on whether their ambitions serve God’s purposes or personal interests.
The All Clergy Conference, which brings together priests, bishops, and other church leaders from across the country, provided a fitting platform for such guidance.
The theme of this year’s conference centered on spiritual leadership, accountability, and the Church’s prophetic role in society.
Several senior clergy at the conference expressed support for the Archbishop’s directive, noting that it would help safeguard the integrity of the Church in an increasingly politicized environment.
Rev. Canon Joseph Luwum, a parish priest from Northern Uganda, said, “The Church must remain a voice of unity and peace. Once we enter politics, we risk alienating members of our own flock.”
In previous elections, a few priests have attempted to run for public office while still retaining their ecclesiastical titles, leading to confusion and sometimes division within their congregations. The Archbishop’s directive is seen as an effort to bring clarity and uphold discipline within the ranks of the clergy.
Additionally, the Archbishop called upon Christians to pray for peaceful elections and to resist any attempts to sow division through hate speech, tribalism, or political manipulation.
“The Church must be a beacon of hope and reconciliation,” he said. “Let us preach peace, promote justice, and serve all with love, regardless of political inclination.”
In closing, Archbishop Kaziimba reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Church of Uganda continues to play a positive, non-partisan role in national development.
He encouraged clergy to be examples of integrity and selflessness, especially during this critical time.
“Let us not be distracted by the allure of power or position. Our true power lies in faithful service to God and His people,” he concluded.
