West Buganda Diocese Moves to Nominate New Bishop Amid Allegations of Misconduct and Lack of Transparency
Allegations Surrounding Some of the Nominees: While the nomination process continues, allegations of past misconduct and irregularities have cast a shadow over some of the candidates.
Uganda Today Edition: West Buganda Diocese Moves to Nominate New Bishop Amid Allegations of Misconduct and lack of Transparency
The Diocese of West Buganda in Kako, Masaka, is preparing to select its seventh bishop as the current bishop, Henry Katumba Tamale, approaches retirement in March 2025 upon reaching the constitutional age limit of 65.
The Nominations Committee met on January 14, 2025, at the Brovad Hotel in Masaka to shortlist eight candidates from a pool of 20. The process, chaired by Diocesan Chancellor Stanley Kawalya, ran from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and was attended by 15 committee members.
The nominees, one of whom will eventually succeed Bishop Katumba, are:
- Rev. Fr. Can. Moses Kayimba – Diocesan Secretary
- Rev. Fr. Can. Herbert Matovu – Diocesan Treasurer
- Ven. Can. Gaster Nsereko – Archdeacon of Kakoma
- Ven. Can. Patrick Ssimbwa – Archdeacon of Sembabule
- Rev. Fr. Festo Kalungi – Bishop of Kira in the Diocese of Namirembe
- Rev. Fr. Tebasoboke – Health Office, Diocese of Mityana
- Rev. Fr. Matovu Samuel Mbogo – Headmaster, Sembabule S.S.
- Rev. Fr. Nuwagaba – Headmaster, Primary School in Lyantonde
The committee will reconvene on January 20, 2025, at an undisclosed location to select two finalists, whose names will be forwarded to the House of Bishops. The final selection will occur during a meeting scheduled for February 20–23, 2025. The consecration of the new bishop is planned for March 3, 2025, at Kako.
Allegations Surrounding Nominees
While the nomination process continues, allegations of past misconduct and irregularities have cast a shadow over some of the candidates.
Rev. Can. Herbert Matovu
Before joining the priesthood, Matovu served as the Subcounty Senior Accounts Assistant for Buwunga Subcounty in Masaka District. He was implicated in mismanaging NAADS funds, which led to his dismissal and subsequent investigations. During this period, he transitioned into pastoral duties, enrolling at Uganda Christian University (UCU).
Rev. Fr. Can. Moses Kayimba
Kayimba’s candidacy has raised concerns due to his alleged history of inappropriate relationships. Sources claim he had an affair with a married woman during his time in the Diocese of Namirembe, leading to the breakdown of her family. He is also accused of impregnating his housemaid, with the pregnancy reportedly ending in an abortion.
Rev. Fr. Nuwagaba
Nuwagaba faces disqualification under the Church of Uganda Constitution, which requires candidates to have at least 10 years of service in ministry.
Financial Mismanagement Allegations
Both Canon Matovu and Canon Kayimba, along with Bishop Katumba, have been accused of financial misconduct. Priests within the diocese allege falsified accountability reports and a lack of transparency regarding income and expenditures, particularly for the months of November and December.
Historical Context and Community Expectations
Established in 1960, the Diocese of West Buganda has been led by six bishops:
- Bishop Festus Lutaaya (1960–1972)
- Bishop Stephen Tomusange (1972–1973)
- Bishop Dr. Christopher Disan Ssenyonjo (1974–1997)
- Bishop Dr. Samuel Kamya Ssemakula (1999–2011)
- Bishop Godfrey Makumbi (2011–2015)
- Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale (2016–2025)
Local Christians are reportedly advocating for a native of West Buganda to ascend to the position, with strong support for Ven. Can. Patrick Ssimbwa and Ven. Can. Gaster Nsereko. Both have deep roots in the diocese, with Nsereko having served as Provost of Kako Cathedral and Ssimbwa as Archdeacon of Sembabule.
A Call for Transparency and Integrity
As the diocese prepares for this significant transition, concerns over past misconduct and the integrity of the selection process remain critical. Christians in West Buganda hope for a leader who embodies transparency, accountability, and moral uprightness to guide the diocese into a new era.
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