Senior Reporter
Ndorwa East County’s Member of Parliament, Honorable Wilfred Niwagaba, underscored the crucial role of clergy in actively guiding Ugandans, especially leaders, to fulfill their duties effectively and combat corruption.
Niwagaba made these statements yesterday while serving as the guest of honor at the celebration marking 50 years of priesthood and 80 years of age of the outspoken former Parish Priest of Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament, Kitanga Catholic Parish, Rev. Fr. Gaetano Batanyenda, in Kashambya sub-county, Rukiga District. The event, which began with a mass led by Msgr. John Vianney Sunday, the Kabale Diocese Vicar General, was held at the parish grounds and attracted thousands of Christians, including politicians, business leaders, and international guests.
During his speech, Niwagaba noted the significant gap left by the departure of a clergy member like Rev. Fr. Gaetano who actively advocated for the rights of Ugandans. He challenged the prevailing belief that religious leaders should refrain from political involvement, asserting that their endorsement of politicians inherently involves them in political matters.
Additionally, Niwagaba urged Rev. Fr. Marious Byamukama, Rev. Fr. Gaetano’s successor, to carry on the legacy of advocating for parishioners at the national level, particularly in the fight against corruption.
Roland Bish Ndyomugenyi, the MP for Rukiga County, Kanungu Businessman James Musinguzi Garuga, and Rukiga District LCV Chairman Mbabazi Robert Kakwerere praised Rev. Fr. Batanyenda for not only spreading the Gospel but also for promoting a culture of savings among the public in the region. They highlighted his instrumental role in establishing the Rukiga Savings and Credit Cooperative Society, which significantly contributed to fostering a saving culture.
In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Batanyenda expressed gratitude for the support during his tenure and appealed to well-wishers to continue supporting his successor in advancing the parish’s development. He attributed his retirement to health issues, for which he requested permission from the Kabale Diocesan Bishop.
Despite his association with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, Rev. Fr. Batanyenda is known for openly criticizing President Yoweri Museveni’s alleged failure to tackle corruption within the government.
