Bishop Katumba Tamale Faces Allegations of Influence Peddling in West Buganda Diocese Succession Process

Masaka – The outgoing Bishop of West Buganda Diocese, Rt. Rev. Henry Katumba Tamale, is facing backlash over alleged influence peddling in the process of selecting his replacement. Uganda Today has learned that Bishop Tamale is reportedly maneuvering to impose a successor who is unpopular among the majority of Christians in the diocese.

Sources privy to the ongoing succession process revealed that during a recent meeting of the nomination committee held at Hotel Brovad, Masaka, eight names were shortlisted for consideration. These names were subsequently forwarded to the House of Bishops, which is tasked with narrowing them down to two finalists to be presented to the Province of the Church of Uganda for final selection.

However, controversy has erupted following reports that Bishop Tamale has allegedly influenced the nomination process by “smuggling” an additional name—Rev. David Sserwadda of St. John’s Church, Kamwokya, in Kampala Diocese—into the list of candidates. This move is said to have been prompted by growing resistance among Christians to earlier candidates linked to the Bishop due to their questionable backgrounds.

Christians Voice Concerns Over Transparency

Many Christians within the diocese have expressed frustration with the Bishop’s alleged actions, accusing him of prioritizing personal interests over the collective will of the congregation. “This process is supposed to be transparent and guided by the Holy Spirit, but it seems personal agendas are taking precedence,” remarked a concerned church member who requested anonymity.

Rev. Sserwadda’s inclusion in the race has reportedly caused further tension, with some Christians questioning his sudden emergence and suitability for the role. “We don’t even know much about him. It feels like he was brought in through the backdoor to serve someone’s agenda,” another congregant noted.

Bishop Tamale Under Scrutiny

Bishop Tamale, who has served the diocese for over a decade, is no stranger to controversy. While he has been commended for some achievements during his tenure, his leadership style has often drawn criticism for being overly authoritative. This latest saga has only intensified calls for reforms in the selection process to ensure that future leadership transitions are free from undue interference.

Efforts to reach Bishop Tamale for comment were unsuccessful, but sources close to him defended his actions, stating that he was simply acting in the best interests of the diocese.

What’s Next?

As the House of Bishops prepares to deliberate on the final candidates, many Christians are calling for vigilance and adherence to established procedures to avoid setting a dangerous precedent.

“We want a leader who will unify us and steer the diocese forward—not someone forced upon us for reasons we cannot understand,” emphasized a lay leader.

The election of a bishop is a sacred process in the Church of Uganda, and any perceived manipulation could have lasting implications on the credibility of the institution. All eyes are now on the Church’s leadership to address the allegations and ensure a fair and transparent selection process.

Uganda Today will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as new information becomes available.

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