EDITOR
In a recent public statement, Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, the former Minister of Science and Technology, strongly condemned acts of violence that Christians in Sheema District had directed at clergy members of West Ankole Diocese. The incidents, which occurred in 2014, stemmed from disagreements between a section of Christians and the diocesan leadership over the expansion of Ankole Western University (AWU).
The conflict arose when the Diocese announced plans to create a branch of AWU at Katungu Mothers Union Centre in Bushenyi town. This move aimed to utilize the available buildings at Katungu to expand the university and bring education services closer to local communities. However, some Christians in Sheema opposed the decision, fearing the university would be relocated from their area. The opposition escalated to acts of violence and destruction, with reports of threats against clergy and an incident involving the burning of a vehicle.
Dr. Tumwesigye, who had not previously spoken publicly about the violence, used the platform to urge Christians to refrain from attacking the church or its leaders. “Never fight the church and never fight a religious leader or clergy,” he emphasized. Reflecting on the incident of the burned vehicle, he added, “Such a person who went to the extent of burning the car would have killed the owner if he got him in.”
Lay Canon Charles Aine, who served as the chief guest at Namara’s function, also shared his experience of being threatened by leaders of the conflict for his neutral stance. Despite the intimidation, he emphasized the importance of supporting the clergy and standing for peace.
The event was marked by a successful fundraising effort, collecting over Sh15 million in cash and pledges. Aine himself contributed Sh5 million and pledged to modernize the church’s altar. In addition, Moses Ariho, Director of Kituzi Company, called on the church’s lay leaders to collaborate with Christians to support clergy families both socially and economically. He also encouraged church leaders to invest more in the education sector and revitalize church-founded schools to benefit the community.
The remarks from Dr. Tumwesigye and other leaders emphasized unity, support for religious leaders, and the importance of education in fostering community development.
