Politics Invades the Pulpit: Rivals Clash at Priestly Ceremony
Ntungamo, Uganda – A priestly thanksgiving ceremony in Ntungamo District turned into a heated political exchange between rivals, leaving attendees shocked and divided.
The incident occurred on March 8, 2025, at Nyarwanya parish in Rubaare sub-county, during the ceremony for Rev. Fr. Selenzio Katusiime.
Hon. Naome Kabasharira, the incumbent MP for Rushenyi County, took the stage and invited aspiring MPs, including her contender Mr. Jonan Muhumuza, to introduce themselves.
However, things took a dramatic turn when Muhumuza appealed to Kabasharira to step down, citing her advanced age as a challenge to new aspirants.
This remark was perceived as disrespectful, causing tension among the attendees. Despite the awkward atmosphere, the ceremony continued, with Muhumuza gifting Fr. Katusiime 1 million shillings and encouraging him to serve diligently.
Kabasharira responded by advising Muhumuza to seek guidance from other aspirants on how to speak, while acknowledging his donation of iron sheets to Kaina primary school.
This incident highlights the challenges of keeping politics out of sacred spaces, emphasizing the need for respect and decorum in such events.
Kabasharira emphasized the importance of embracing priesthood, linking it to development through evangelism.
Fr. Selenzio Katusiime, who will be serving in a parish in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, promised to respond to his priesthood call without discrimination.
The ceremony was also attended by Ambrose Kyenjoga, who thanked his brother Fr. Katusiime for welcoming Jesus as his Savior and committing to serve all believers.
