Clare
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, Tooro Chapter (IRC), has launched an initiative to educate Christians on the importance of combating corruption, a growing issue in the country.
During the 8 AM Mass today at Virika McCauley Hall Fort Portal City, Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki, the Bishop of Fort Portal, was joined by Rt. Rev. Bishop Reuben Kisembo Amooti of Ruwenzori Diocese, who also chairs the IRC Tooro, along with Bishop Pastor Robert Richard Rusoke of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Bishop James Mugenyi of the Pentecostal Church. Together, they shared messages aimed at eliminating corruption starting from the family level.
Corruption practiced by all religions
Bishop Kisembo addressed the congregation, highlighting the purpose of their visit: to advocate against corruption, which he characterized as theft and greed that contradicts God’s teachings. He urged all believers, regardless of their faith, to repent for engaging in corrupt practices and to uphold honesty. He noted that corruption is a universal issue, affecting people across all religions, as evidenced by the presence of individuals from all backgrounds in courts and prisons.
The IRC Tooro Chairperson, emphasized the role of parents in teaching their children to reject corruption from a young age, laying the groundwork for a future free from this vice.
Bishop Pastor Richard Rusoke cautioned against parents who inadvertently support corruption, such as buying sweets to influence school votes, warning that this behavior fosters a culture of corruption in future generations. He urged Christians to repent and recognize that their respective faith does not condone such actions.
On his part, Bishop James Mugenyi highlighted that the corruption problem predates religious institutions, emphasizing the need for collective action to address it. With the upcoming 2026 elections, he urged vigilance against corrupt practices, advocating for a grassroots approach to combat corruption within families, churches, and the nation.
Judges cautioned on delaying court cases
Hosting Bishop Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki called on judges and lawyers to uphold justice in their professions, highlighting that corruption in judges has fueled the increase of cases in courts, since judges keep on postponing them.
He encouraged Christians to seek alternative dispute resolution methods rather than relying solely on the courts that consume money.
His Lordship Muhiirwa also stressed the importance of environmental stewardship, warning leaders against building in sensitive areas such as swamps, which questions their quality leadership and environmental guidelines.
