Banja election as bishop settles tensions in Namirembe diocese

The election of Reverend Canon Moses Banja as the new bishop of Namirembe has been met with both celebration and skepticism.

Amidst the jubilation, concerns were raised about the nomination process. Balaam Muheebwa, the acting provincial secretary of the Church of Uganda, clarified that a probe committee investigated these concerns and found the process adhered to due protocols.

During the House of Bishops’ session in Namirembe on October 4, a petition was presented by elders of the Namirembe diocese, questioning the nomination of Canon Moses Banja and Reverend Abraham Muyinda.

Allegations of corruption and conflicts of interest were raised, prompting a deferral of the election and the formation of a probe committee led by Rt Rev. Johnson Gakumba, the bishop of Northern Uganda. The committee included several bishops and a legal advisor, investigating in line with Canon 3.7.30 of the Church of Uganda.

The nomination committee, chaired by Fred Mpanga, initially received 13 candidates for the bishop’s position. However, a meeting to finalize the nomination was marred by disagreements, with concerns that some candidates had not undergone proper vetting. Insider sources suggest that the petitioners supported an alternative candidate but concerns about this candidate’s suitability surfaced.

According to Adams Sadiiki, Church of Uganda provincial spokesperson, the committee’s recommendations will be discussed by the Provincial Assembly Standing Committee to improve future bishop nominations.

The Church of Uganda has seen similar disputes in the past, with some instances leading to legal action. For example, Rev Charles Oode Okunya resigned and established the Reformed Anglican Church after facing hurdles in his bid to become a bishop.

The newly elected bishop, aged 59, implies that Namirembe diocese will soon require another bishop. Muheebwa reassures that age is not the primary concern, emphasizing the importance of qualifications over tenure.

Eligibility for bishop in the Church of Uganda requires ordained priests with a minimum of ten years of pastoral experience, at least 45 years old, holding relevant academic qualifications.

The nomination committee considers various factors, including age, academic qualifications, pastoral experience, spiritual dedication, family life, personal integrity, and societal standing.