By Kabuye Ronald
The Presiding Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC) in Uganda, Most Rt. Rev. Jacinto Kibuuka, has strongly criticized politicians particularly Members of Parliament for their greed, selfishness, and corruption.
His remarks were sparked by reports alleging that MPs, especially those aligned to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), received a 100 million shilling token of appreciation for passing the controversial Coffee Act, which transferred the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) to the Ministry of Agriculture.
Delivering his Easter homily at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Janda, Namugongo, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, Bishop Kibuuka questioned the motive behind such “appreciation,” arguing that if the law genuinely served the interests of Ugandans, then no such reward would be necessary.
“If this law is truly in the interest of Ugandans, why the need to reward MPs? Why is this not done for other laws they pass especially considering their hefty salaries?” Bishop Kibuuka asked.
“The laws you are manipulating to serve selfish interests through corruption time will come when they are set right,” he warned.
Bishop Kibuuka also condemned fake and exploitative religious leaders, accusing them of turning their followers into mere business ventures. He criticized such leaders for manipulating and intimidating congregants under the guise of spirituality, urging believers to be vigilant and informed.
“Just because you’re called the sheep of Christ doesn’t mean you should allow yourselves to be blindly led by wolves in sheep’s clothing. Read your Bible!” he emphasized.
The bishop called on all who engage in such immoral acts whether in politics or religion to use the Easter season as a time for repentance and spiritual renewal. He urged Ugandans to prioritize God, national development, and the well-being of others over personal gain.
“Don’t let the material things of this world consume you. They will cost you the eternal and everlasting life,” he said.
Bishop Kibuuka concluded his message by reminding the public that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a call to forgiveness, love, reconciliation, reflection, and a renewed focus on God.
