High Court Summons Archbishop, Bishops Over Disputed Election in Luwero Diocese

The High Court in Luwero has called on 37 bishops, including the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, to explain why they nullified the election of Rev. Canon Godfrey Kasana Ssemakula as the fourth bishop of the Luwero Anglican Diocese.

This decision was made in response to allegations from a group of Christians, led by Kenneth R. Kikabi, claiming that Rev. Ssemakula’s integrity was misrepresented due to him fathering a child outside of wedlock, which they argued violated religious laws.

In June 2023, the House of Bishops, meeting in Hoima, decided to cancel Rev. Ssemakula’s election based on these allegations. Dissatisfied, seven Christians filed a lawsuit at Luwero High Court, challenging the nullification.

The Principal Judge dismissed the case in October, but four petitioners decided to appeal, accusing the House of Bishops of violating human rights and breaching care for Christians.

The petitioners seek a declaration that the nullification was unjust and had no legal effect. They insist that Rev. Canon Kasana is the rightful bishop and demand an order for his consecration.

Additionally, they want the bishops to acknowledge that the nullification violated Rev. Kasana’s right to a fair hearing. The bishops have been summoned to present their defense within 15 days, with a warning that failure to comply may result in a judgment in favor of the plaintiffs.