The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Kaziimba, has raised alarm over the increasing fear of poisoning among Ugandan leaders, revealing that some MPs avoid eating at church functions due to concerns about their safety. Kaziimba’s remarks highlight a disturbing trend of distrust and fear within the nation’s leadership.
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba of the Church of Uganda has expressed his unease over the growing fear of poisoning among the nation’s leaders, particularly Members of Parliament.
Speaking during a recent church function, Kaziimba noted that the fear has become so pervasive that some MPs avoid eating at church gatherings, fearing they might be poisoned.
“When we lose our people, yes we can cry, but that isn’t the end of it all. Only that when some people cry, they utter some bad words—this one has been bewitched, this one has been poisoned. I think poison has become a common language,” Kaziimba remarked, reflecting on the disturbing trend. “And that is why, when we have you Members of Parliament visiting at church, many people, when it comes to lunchtime, they disappear. They fear being poisoned even at church.”
The Archbishop’s comments come at a time when Uganda has seen a rise in rumors and allegations of poisoning among its leaders, contributing to an atmosphere of suspicion and fear. Kaziimba acknowledged the gravity of the situation, admitting that even he, a man of deep faith, shares in the fear of dying, despite his commitment to preparing people for the afterlife.
“I want to pray for you that God will give you the strength because we have lost many people from this House, and we pray that God will continue taking care of each one of you,” Kaziimba said.
He noted that the 11th Parliament has experienced a significant number of deaths, which has only heightened the anxiety among its members.
Kaziimba’s plea for divine protection over the MPs and his call for prayers underscores the deep concern within the Church over the state of the nation’s leadership. The Archbishop also took a moment to reflect on the recent loss of Sarah Mateke, a former minister and MP, praising her humility and dedication to the church, despite her prominent position.
“And if you haven’t introduced the MP, you are in trouble; you may not have a glass of water the next day. Sarah has been very humble. Sometimes, people in the Cathedral didn’t know that she worships. And I want to thank her for her contribution to the church. We must pray for Mzee Mateke and the family. This is a great loss,” Kaziimba added.
The Archbishop’s remarks highlight a troubling reality where fear and mistrust are infiltrating even the most sacred spaces, raising questions about the overall state of leadership and unity in Uganda.
