In Lira city, Uganda, a group of Christians from the Yahweh Pentecostal Mission, a faction separate from the PAG Mission, attempted to hold a procession to deliver a petition to the Resident City Commissioner. The peaceful protest took a turn when the police fired tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, resulting in several people getting injured.
The protesters began their procession at their church located in the Lira City East Division. Carrying placards with various messages, they walked along Oyam Road until they reached the main street, where they encountered the police. Despite being asked to return to their church, the protesters refused, leading to a back-and-forth exchange with the police. In response, the police used tear gas to compel the group to return to their place of worship.
While many believers eventually returned to their church headquarters, their leaders had already proceeded to deliver the petition to Lawrence Egole, the Lira Resident City Commissioner. Egole promised to ensure that the petition reached the President’s office.
Jimmy Patrick Okema, the North Kyoga Police spokesperson, justified the use of tear gas, deeming the procession illegal. He stated that the police’s action aimed to prevent disorder and disruptions to businesses within the city. Okema also urged the church leadership to be truthful to their followers.
The conflict between the Yahweh Pentecostal Mission and the PAG Mission has revolved around the ownership of churches and properties in the Lango Sub-region. PAG Mission recently obtained a court order to reclaim over 200 properties, a decision that has faced opposition from Yahweh. Sam Omara, a Senior Pastor of Akia Assembly Yahweh Pentecostal Mission, accused the police of taking sides in the property disputes.
Bonnie Rwamukaage, the court-appointed official tasked with executing the order, expressed frustration over the lack of security support. The ongoing tensions between Yahweh and the PAG Mission have led to several conflicts and counterattacks, particularly on Sundays. Worshipers in village churches have become known for carrying weapons like machetes (pangas) to defend themselves in case of attacks.
