Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has launched scathing accusations against the Reformed Anglican Church, likening them to a gang of robbers for allegedly seizing Church of Uganda (COU) churches. He has vowed legal action against the group for their continued occupation of COU churches in the Kumi diocese.
During a pastoral visit to Kumi, Archbishop Kaziimba expressed his dismay over the situation, emphasizing that the disputed churches hold significant educational and community value. He called upon security forces to intervene, fearing potential violence as tensions escalate between Anglican Christians and the Reform team.
The Archbishop’s remarks were made during an appearance on Vision Group’s Etop Radio on March 10, 2024, amid a week-long pastoral visit to Kumi Diocese.
The conflict stems from a longstanding controversy in Kumi Anglican Diocese, dating back four years when the COU House of Bishops cancelled the election of Rev. Charles Okunya. The cancellation followed revelations that Okunya had revised his year of birth in an attempt to meet the constitutional and canonical age requirements for election as Bishop.
Despite failed attempts to secure the bishopric through legal means, Okunya eventually broke away from the Anglican Church to establish the Reformed Anglican Church. He denies any involvement in the violence and disputes Archbishop Kaziimba’s accusations.
The Archbishop and his team encountered resistance during their visit to Kanyum church, where the Reformed Church blocked their entry, claiming ownership rights. Despite a court ruling in favor of the Anglican Church, tensions ran high, with insults hurled at Archbishop Kaziimba and Bishop Eskahan.
Okunya refutes allegations of inciting violence and maintains that the Reformed Anglican Church seeks peaceful resolution through dialogue rather than coercion. However, he criticizes Archbishop Kaziimba’s approach, asserting that forcing entry where unwelcome is counterproductive.
The property dispute underscores broader tensions within the Anglican community, with legal battles and clashes reflecting deep-seated divisions. As the standoff persists, the Archbishop’s call for intervention highlights the urgency of addressing the conflict to prevent further escalation and foster reconciliation.
