Editor
The proliferation of holy spirit-refilling hubs in Kisoro District has been attributed to the alleged abuse of authority by Local Council One Chairpersons, according to authorities, including Church leaders. During a public engagement at Mubano Hotel in Kisoro municipality, concerns were raised about these chairpersons colluding with individuals from other regions with negative intentions, allowing them to establish such hubs in the area.
Pr. Jonas Maniragaba, the Kisoro district overseer for the National Fellowship of Born-Again Pentecostal Churches, expressed worry about individuals who, having committed atrocities in their home countries, seek refuge in Uganda and establish churches. Pr. Emmanuel Agensi of Faith and Hope Ablaze Mission accused local leaders of conspiring with Congolese individuals spreading misleading prophecies, disguising themselves as church leaders, and committing atrocities in the district. The speakers questioned the illegal permissions granted by Local Council One Chairpersons to foreign entities to establish worship units without the knowledge of the migration department.
Sam Sendegeya, LCI chairperson for Chahi village in Kisoro municipality, attributed the issue to the delayed response of police officers and cited police laxity as a contributing factor to the problem. Ndabarinze Christopher, the Kamonyi Ward LCII chairperson representing the Muhabura Diocesan Secretary’s office, urged leaders to adhere to government laws outlined in the constitution. He also called on the police to define the operational limits within which local chairpersons should work to ensure a secure environment.
Twinomugisha Godliver, OC/CID of Kisoro Central Police Station representing the DPC, cautioned Local Council One Chairpersons to exercise caution and refrain from the misuse of authority that could tarnish their image. She pledged to launch a manhunt for those operating unlicensed churches in the district.
