Christians vow to block consecration of bishop

Gomba. The consecration of the newly appointed Central Buganda Diocese bishop hangs in balance with a section of Christians plotting to block it.
In August, the Church of Uganda House of Bishops elected Rev Michael Lubowa as the new Central Buganda Diocese bishop to replace reverend Jackson Matovu. But some Christians have since opposed his candidature.

Rev Lubowa’s consecration is scheduled to take place on January 29 at the diocesan headquarters in Kasaka Town, Gomba District.
Threats to block Rev Lubowa’s sanctification stem from allegations that he was irregularly elected after the nomination process was reportedly influenced by Bishop Matovu, who is said to have favoured him against other candidates. Bishop Matovu has denied the allegation.

Shortly after election, a group of Christians led by Mr Edward Kasozi Kamya, a resident of Mpigi Town Council, petitioned Archbishop Ntagali, highlighting up to 25 grounds on which their grievances are based, upon which they asked him to cancel Lubowa’s selection and demanded for fresh elections.
Mr Kasozi told Daily Monitor last week that they have enough evidence to justify that Bishop Matovu selfishly influenced the election process, with alleged intentions of covering up his administrative flaws.

Bishop Matovu referred this reporter to Mr Isaac Ssejjombwe, the diocesan chancellor and legal custodian, for a comment.
Mr Ssejjombwe said the archbishop arrived at the decision after thoroughly studying the petition and found no substantial facts that could lead to the cancellation of the election. He said preparations are still going on as planned and nothing will stand in their way to install the new bishop.
Rev Lubowa declined to comment on the matter.

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