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By BM
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, has commissioned a Provincial Tribunal to resolve internal disputes and promote justice within the Church, a move seen as a milestone in strengthening transparency and accountability in the Anglican institution.
The event took place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Lweza Training and Conference Centre, where the House of Bishops also elected Rev. Canon Associate Prof. Dr. Grace Lubaale as the 4th Bishop of Busoga Diocese.
Speaking during the commissioning, Archbishop Kazimba emphasized that the establishment of the Tribunal reflects the Church’s commitment to internal discipline, reconciliation, and good governance.
“The Church must lead by example. We must handle our own matters with integrity and fairness. The Provincial Tribunal will ensure that justice is not only done but also seen to be done within the Body of Christ,” he said.
Before being commissioned, the Tribunal members underwent an orientation session facilitated by Justice Mike Chibita of the Supreme Court, who guided them on ethical principles, independence, and adherence to the Church’s constitution and canons.
The Tribunal, which will serve as the Church’s highest internal judicial body, is mandated to hear and determine disputes ranging from diocesan governance to clergy discipline.
It is expected to enhance trust in the Church’s administrative systems and minimize internal wrangles that have occasionally marred harmony in some dioceses.
The Provincial Chancellor, Canon Naboth Muhairwe, will chair the Tribunal. Other members include senior clergy and respected legal professionals such as Bishop Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa (Ankole Diocese), Bishop Onesimus Asiimwe (North Kigezi), Bishop Pons Awinjo Ozelle (Nebbi), Bishop James Bukomeko (Mityana), Bishop George Turyasingura (East Ruwenzori), and Bishop John Wilson Nandaah (Mbale).
The laity is represented by Justice Hellen Obura, while the clergy’s voice comes through The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye, the Provost of All Saints Cathedral Kampala.
In a parallel development during the same session, the House of Bishops elected Rev. Canon Associate Prof. Dr. Grace Lubaale as the new Bishop of Busoga Diocese, succeeding Rt. Rev. Paul Naimanhye, who has served since 2016.
Born on October 9, 1978, in Bugombya Zone, Kamuli District, Dr. Lubaale’s election has been met with excitement and hope within Busoga and beyond.
He is widely respected for combining faith with intellect, a theologian and academic who brings scholarly depth and pastoral experience to the Church’s mission.
He holds a Doctorate in Development Studies, Master’s Degrees in Theology and Development Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts with Education.
His background in education and development has seen him mentor many young Ugandans, advocating for the integration of faith and community transformation.
Dr. Lubaale was ordained a Deacon in 2008, Priested in 2009, and later installed as Canon of Education and Training at All Saints Cathedral, Kampala, in November 2024.
His ministry has been marked by an emphasis on integrity, holistic discipleship, and empowering Christians to be agents of change in their communities.
He is married to Clare Louise Atuheirwe, and together they have four children.
Dr. Lubaale will be consecrated and enthroned as Bishop of Busoga Diocese on December 14, 2025, at Christ Cathedral, Bugembe in Jinja, the seat of the Diocese.
Observers say the simultaneous commissioning of the Tribunal and election of a new bishop signal the Church’s dual focus on reform and renewal strengthening its institutional frameworks while raising leaders capable of steering dioceses toward spiritual and social transformation.
As Archbishop Kazimba put it, “This is a season of accountability and revival. We are building a Church that is rooted in truth, justice, and service.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
